The Nation Newspaper

Category: South East

  • Tinubu’s policies making Nigeria rich again – Uzodimma

    Tinubu’s policies making Nigeria rich again – Uzodimma

    • Says president identified cancer holding Nigeria hostage’

    • Fiscal reforms yielding results, says APC Govs Forum

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ has reversed some of Nigeria’s economic plagues and his policies are making Nigeria rich again, Imo state governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma has said.

     Addressing a crowd of All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters during a meeting of the Progressive Governors’ Forum in Birnin – Kebbi yesterday , Uzodinma who is the  emphasised that the parlous economic situation inherited by President Tinubu in 2023 required very bold and painful steps which has now started manifesting positive results.

     “We are to give you the good news and thank you for your patience; in 2023 when Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu came into office, he met a Nigeria that was almost drowning and what was required was a bold leader who will be able to take bold decisions, and he discovered the cancer that had held in Nigeria hostage.

     “And he took bold decisions, removing fuel subsidy,  unifying the exchange rate, rolling out so many reforms and fiscal policies that made Nigeria that was almost broke now gradually becoming rich again,” he stated.

     At the event that was attended by governors, ministers, APC state governors, party leaders, leaders of the youth organisations and women leaders and streamed online, Governor Uzodinma pointed out that the pains, patience and endurance of Nigerians is now gradually bearing fruits.

    READ ALSO: No plans to join APC, says Lawal

     “ The aftermath of those (reform policies) decisions were extremely harsh; the cost of living went up, prices of food went up and despite all interventions and palliative measures by the government, our people were almost crying.

     “Today, it was like a woman that was under labour; and the parents have heard the cries of the new baby and now, it is jubilation everywhere,” he said.

     Uzodinma, who stated that the APC federal government is rolling out a massive economic empowerment programme that would directly touch hundreds of lives in each ward across the nation’s 774 local government councils, further said:“So I commend you, my brothers and sisters, our party members for the leadership you have shown and to you our leaders, for the protection you have given to our members all this while because I know what it means to be a leader.

     “I have seen former governors of Kebbi state, Alhaji Adamu Aliero, Alhaji Atiku Bagudu and other leaders here; there is a common proverb in my place: when the eye is bleeding, the nose is also bleeding – so, for them to have shown leadership and for you to have remained resilient and committed to our party, we must give glory to God.

     “Now that you went through the famine, the good news is that this is now harvest period; after the President has worked so hard through the Renewed Hope Agenda, to begin to earn more revenue – Nigeria is now earning huge revenue outside crude oil – the President, in his wisdom in the last National Economic Council meeting, decided that 1,000 active businesses must be created in every electoral world across Nigeria between now and the next six to twelve months.

     “Through that, we must have minimum of 1,000 active businesses in each ward and I have been told that it’s happening simultaneously all over the country; when your governor told you to submit names electoral ward, that is the purpose for which those names is being collected.

     “Whether you are a vulcanizer, bicycle repair, a barber, bricklayer, an IT specialist, no matter your businesses, we need to now push them to them, some of this money that we have earned, so that it reaches down to the grassroots and nothing can beat this,” he said.

     According to Uzodinma, the only truly viable political party in Nigeria is the All Progressives Congress and that is the reason why political heavyweights from other parties are queuing to join it.

     “The truth is that there is only one political party in Nigeria and the name of that political party is APC; have you not seen on the television or at the National Assembly and in states, every day,  you see Senators, House of Reps members and others leaving their parties and joining APC.

     “You also see governors leaving their party and joining APC; It is not born out of nothing, it is conviction that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has performed – it is a testament to the fact that Nigeria is now working again,” Uzodinma stated.

     Meanwhile, the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) at the end of a two-day meeting held in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, between October 16 and 17 reaffirmed its commitment to the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The forum, in a communiqué read by the  chairman, Sen. Hope Uzodimma,

    said that the meeting, which brought together APC governors from across the country, served as a strategic platform for reflection on the nation’s socio-economic trajectory and a reassessment of the states’ role in Nigeria’s transformation process.

     “The forum also described the collaborative framework involving the federal, state, and local governments as a model of cooperative federalism and inclusive development,” he said.

      “The governors congratulated President Tinubu, the national leadership of the APC, and Nigerians at large on the development.

      “This would further strengthen national unity and progressive leadership across the country.

     “We warmly congratulate His Excellency, Dr Peter Mbah, on his courageous decision to join the APC.

     “His entry reinforces the party’s growing national appeal and validates the policy strength of the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

     Uzodimma said that the forum also commended President Tinubu and the APC leadership for steering the party into what it described as a new era of inclusivity, ideological clarity, and national consolidation.

     “During the meeting, the governors undertook a comprehensive appraisal of the political, security, and socio-economic situation in the country.

     “They expressed satisfaction with the progress being recorded in fiscal reforms, food security, power sector stabilisation, infrastructural modernisation, and social intervention programmes.

     “The forum noted that under President Tinubu’s leadership, the nation’s economy is recording steady growth, with inflation and interest rates declining, while revenue accruing to the three tiers of government continues to increase.

     “The forum lauded the President for initiatives introduced through the National Economic Council aimed at creating opportunities for Nigerians across the 8,809 INEC wards of the federation.

     “The Progressive Governors’ Forum commends the foresight of President Tinubu and reaffirms its collective resolve to support all policies and programmes under the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

  • 26 years after: Nsukka zone demands ministerial slot

    26 years after: Nsukka zone demands ministerial slot

    • *Says ‘we’ve waited too long’

    The people of Enugu North Senatorial Zone, popularly known as Nsukka Zone, have raised alarm over what they described as 26 years of political neglect in federal appointments.

    They appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to end the long-standing exclusion by appointing an indigene of the area as minister and in other strategic positions.

    The demand came from a group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) under the aegis of Enugu North APC Frontiers, following the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji.

    In a letter to the President signed by Barr. Ejikeme Ugwu (National Convener) and Sydney Eze (National Secretary), the group lamented that no indigene of Enugu North has ever been appointed minister since 1999.

    “We wish to bring to Your Excellency’s attention the long cry of the good people of Enugu North Senatorial Zone—over 52 percent of Enugu State’s population—who have never been represented in the Federal Executive Council since the return of democracy,” the letter read in part.

    According to data provided by the group, Enugu West has produced four ministers since 1999, Enugu East three, while Enugu North has yet to produce any.

    Read Also: Why Tinubu should consider nominating a Minister from Nsukka zone to replace Nnaji

    Describing the trend as “a clear case of marginalization and lack of fairness,” the group urged the President to “correct the injustice in the spirit of equity and inclusiveness.”

    Between 2015 and 2023, the group noted, no person from Enugu North held an executive federal position, except General Eze, who served as ambassador, and late Senator Ayogu Eze, appointed as a commissioner in the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) in 2023.

    They further revealed that from 2015 to date, Enugu West recorded 22 federal chairmanship and executive appointments, Enugu East 10, while Enugu North also had 10, ranking last.

    The APC Frontiers described the zone as a reservoir of talent, saying it is “blessed with hardworking, honest, and God-fearing people” capable of helping to drive President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “We have technocrats, professionals, and administrators who can serve as ministers, board chairmen, or heads of agencies. Enugu North has nurtured the APC in Enugu State and deserves a fair chance to contribute to national development,” the statement added.

    The group appealed to President Tinubu to “break the jinx” and appoint one of their qualified sons or daughters as Enugu’s representative in the Federal Executive Council.

    “Our people have endured decades of marginalization with patience and dignity. We pray you consider an indigene of Enugu North to serve in your cabinet as history beckons,” they pleaded.

    They assured the President of total loyalty and support ahead of the 2027 elections.

    “We promise, Your Excellency, that our people will deliver the highest votes for you and our great party come 2027,” the group stated.

  • Tension mounts over arrest of YPP supporter

    Tension mounts over arrest of YPP supporter

    Tension is rising in Anambra State following the arrest of Mr Chigozie Omile, a staunch supporter of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) governorship candidate, Sir Paul Chukwuma, by security operatives.

    It was gathered that Omile was apprehended over a WhatsApp message in which some “powerful names” in the state were allegedly mentioned. His arrest and subsequent detention at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka have generated unease within political circles as the November 8 governorship election approaches.

    Sources told The Nation that Omile was arrested on Tuesday evening by operatives of the SCID at his shop located in Main Market, Onitsha. The arrest reportedly followed a petition concerning the content of a social media post he allegedly shared.

    However, details surrounding the petition remain unclear, as neither the identity of the petitioner nor the specific content of the message has been made public.

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    Some political observers suspect that the arrest may be politically motivated, given Omile’s open support for the YPP candidate.

    Efforts to reach the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Tochukwu Ikenga, were unsuccessful as he was said to be attending a high-profile meeting at the time of filing this report.

    However, a senior police officer who spoke on condition of anonymity confirmed the development, assuring that the command would handle the matter with fairness.

    “Yes, the case is before us, but I have not seen the suspect yet. I will look into it and ensure justice is done,” the officer said. “The command stands for justice, and once the truth is established, justice will prevail.”

    Further findings revealed that a top government official had earlier complained about Omile, which reportedly triggered his arrest.

    As political activities heighten ahead of the election, Omile’s arrest has sparked concerns among opposition supporters, who allege attempts to intimidate voices sympathetic to the YPP.

  • Soludo woos motorists with major reduction in traffic fines

    Soludo woos motorists with major reduction in traffic fines

    As the November 8 governorship election draws near, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo (CFR) has announced a sweeping reform in traffic penalty rates aimed at bringing relief to motorists across Anambra State.

    In a move widely seen as a gesture of goodwill to road users and the broader electorate, the governor approved the reduction of all traffic fines to a flat rate of N10,000, regardless of the nature of the offence.

    The policy, which takes effect on October 14, 2025, reflects the Soludo administration’s ongoing commitment to a people-centred governance model that prioritises economic relief and fairness.

    According to a statement issued by the Governor’s Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime, the decision is part of a broader plan to strengthen trust between government and citizens by ensuring policies are empathetic and responsive to real-life challenges.

    “This decision is part of Governor Soludo’s broader commitment to fostering a more inclusive and fair governance model that considers the economic realities faced by citizens,” the statement read. “The policy is designed to alleviate the economic strain on our people, particularly at a time when many are grappling with rising costs.”

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    Before this change, motorists in Anambra paid fines ranging from N20,000 to N50,000 for various traffic infractions — a burden that drew widespread complaints from both private and commercial drivers. The new directive not only lightens this financial load but also underscores the Governor’s resolve to make governance feel humane, accessible, and impactful in the lives of ordinary citizens.

    Governor Soludo further assured that the Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA) will intensify its efforts to improve traffic management, including the designation and proper marking of bus stops to reduce congestion and enhance road safety.

    The initiative forms part of the Soludo administration’s broader vision for a prosperous, safe, and citizen-friendly Anambra, where governance truly serves the people.

  • ‘I’m in the race to prove women can lead Anambra’

    ‘I’m in the race to prove women can lead Anambra’

    As political activities intensify ahead of the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State, the only female candidate in the race, Chioma Ifemeludike, has declared her ambition as a deliberate effort to challenge the long-standing male dominance in the state’s political arena.

    Speaking with The Nation in Awka, the 36-year-old governorship hopeful of the African Action Congress (AAC) said her candidacy represents not just a personal aspiration, but a movement for gender equity and inclusiveness in leadership.

    “I joined this race to show that women are equally capable of winning elections and governing effectively,” she said. “For too long, men have dominated the political space in Anambra. It’s time to prove that competence, not gender, should define leadership.”

    Ifemeludike, who has built a reputation as a youth advocate and social crusader, acknowledged the financial challenges of her campaign but expressed firm belief that her faith and the support of the people would see her through.

    “Though I don’t have the kind of money others have, I believe that God will fight this battle for me and my party,” she said with conviction. “Elections should be about ideas and integrity, not about who can spend the most.”

    Dispelling rumours that she might step down for another candidate, Ifemeludike was unequivocal: “There’s no such intention whatsoever. I’m fully in this race, and I’m here to stay. Election is a matter of choice — it’s left for the people to decide who they truly want.”

    The AAC candidate said her party has outlined several people-oriented policies and programmes aimed at improving welfare, strengthening education, and empowering women and youth. She assured that under her leadership, Anambra would experience “a new wave of justice, inclusion, and opportunity for all.”

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    In her message to voters, Ifemeludike urged the electorate to prioritise integrity and competence over financial inducement.

    “Vote right and do not allow anyone to deceive you with money,” she cautioned. “The future of Anambra is too important to be sold for temporary gain.”

    She also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a free, fair, and credible election on November 8, stressing that credibility in the process would strengthen democracy and inspire more women to participate in politics.

    “I’m not just running for myself,” she concluded. “I’m running for every woman and young girl who has been told that politics is not for them. This is our time to change that narrative.”

  • Obi: why we’re backing LP candidate Moghalu

    Obi: why we’re backing LP candidate Moghalu

    The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi, has expressed confidence in the capacity of the party’s governorship candidate in Anambra State, Dr George Moghalu, to win the November 8 governorship election and restore purposeful governance to the state.

    Obi, who spoke during a visit to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Igwe Ositadinma Nwokedi (Uthoko n’Eze Achalla), as part of the party’s community-to-community campaign tour, said leadership should be rooted in humility, compassion, and service to humanity.

    “We are supporting a man who has what it takes to rebuild Anambra — a man of character, compassion, and competence,” Obi declared.

    He described Moghalu as a leader with integrity and a proven commitment to the values of accountability and people-centred governance, adding that the Labour Party was united in its determination to bring meaningful development to Anambra State.

    In his remarks, Dr Moghalu decried the deplorable state of roads and infrastructure in Achalla and across Awka North Local Government Area, blaming the situation on years of neglect and failed leadership.

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    “We are at a critical point in our state’s history,” Moghalu said. “The roads in Achalla are scandalous, and no government has any justification to abandon this community despite the huge allocations from the federal government. Awka North receives billions monthly, yet there is nothing to show for it. No road here lasts even one season — the leadership has failed our people.”

    Also speaking, the Member representing Awka North and South Federal Constituency, Prof. Oby Orogbu, condemned what she described as the total absence of government presence in Achalla despite its status as the headquarters of Awka North Local Government Area.

    She listed some of the projects she personally attracted to the area, including the ongoing reconstruction of Community Secondary School, Achalla, the supply of learning materials to public schools, the installation of solar-powered streetlights, and the renovation of rural health centres.

    “It pains me deeply that Achalla has been abandoned by successive governments,” Orogbu said. “Our people deserve schools, roads, and healthcare that work.”

    Welcoming the delegation, Igwe Ositadinma Nwokedi commended the team for their humility and commitment to grassroots engagement. He offered prayers for their success and urged them to continue demonstrating leadership anchored on service and empathy.

  • ADC candidate visits family of flood victim in Nnewi

    ADC candidate visits family of flood victim in Nnewi

    The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Anambra State, Mr John Nwosu, has paid a condolence visit to the Nwizu family of Obiagu, Uruagu Nnewi, who recently lost their daughter, Miss Uchechukwu Nwizu, to the devastating flood that followed a recent heavy downpour in the area.

    During the visit, Nwosu described the tragic incident as deeply painful and avoidable, noting that no community should continue to suffer such preventable disasters in this age.

    Eyewitnesses told The Nation that the young lady was swept away by a fast-moving flood as she attempted to make her way home amid the torrential rain. The flood reportedly overflowed narrow waterways, submerging footpaths and major streets in the community.

    Residents lamented that the tragedy exposed years of government neglect and the absence of a proper drainage system in Nnewi and other flood-prone areas of the state. Many described the incident as a stark reminder of the urgent need for infrastructure renewal.

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    Moved by the situation, Nwosu took time to inspect the affected waterways, expressing concern over their poor condition and the dangers they pose to residents.

    Addressing the grieving family and community members, the ADC candidate conveyed his heartfelt sympathy, assuring them that their pain would not be ignored.

    “This kind of tragedy should not happen in any part of Anambra,” Nwosu said. “If Ndi Anambra entrusts me with their mandate on November 8, 2025, tackling flooding and improving our drainage systems will be a top priority of my administration.”

    The visit ended with prayers for the repose of the soul of the deceased and for comfort to the bereaved family.

  • Niger Delta group hails Tinubu, NUPRC for N373bn host community fund, 536 projects

    Niger Delta group hails Tinubu, NUPRC for N373bn host community fund, 536 projects

    A coalition of civil society organisations under the aegis of the Niger Delta Advancement Forum (NDAF) has applauded President Bola Tinubu and the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Gbenga Komolafe, for what it described as “the most transparent and impactful community development effort in the history of Nigeria’s oil industry.”

    In a statement on Wednesday, NDAF President, Comrade Ebiowei Timipre, said the successful execution of 536 community projects across oil-producing states through the Host Community Development Trust (HCDT) marks “a turning point in the long struggle for equity, justice, and inclusion in the Niger Delta.”

    Timipre commended President Tinubu for demonstrating “unprecedented political will” by empowering the NUPRC to enforce the full implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which had remained largely dormant under previous administrations.

    “For decades, host communities were left with unfulfilled promises and abandoned projects, but under President Tinubu, the story has changed. Through the visionary leadership of Engr. Komolafe at NUPRC, we are finally seeing the oil wealth of the Niger Delta being channelled into schools, hospitals, roads, and livelihoods for our people,” he said.

    According to the group, the Commission, acting under the President’s directive to prioritise local development, has ensured that all projects are executed transparently and simultaneously across multiple states, creating a model of inclusive progress.

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    Citing verified data from the NUPRC, NDAF revealed that as of October 13, 2025, the Host Community Development Trust Fund had grown to ₦373 billion — a contribution made by oil companies operating under the PIA.

    The coalition described the figure as “a historic leap in fiscal accountability” and evidence that the President’s reforms are delivering tangible results.

    “President Tinubu’s insistence on reform-driven governance has given the PIA new life. And under Komolafe’s watch, the NUPRC has become a model of how regulation should work — firm, transparent, and community-centred,” Timipre added.

    He highlighted that the Commission’s HostComply digital dashboard, which tracks deposits and disbursements to host community funds in real time, has eliminated the opacity that once plagued oil industry interventions.

    The NDAF particularly praised the progress recorded in Rivers State, where the NUPRC recently facilitated the completion of over ten projects and launched another ten under the Obagi HCDT operated by TotalEnergies.

    These include hospitals, roads, and educational facilities that directly benefit rural communities.

    Timipre described these results as “proof that Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is producing measurable outcomes in the oil region,” adding that “the synergy between the presidency and NUPRC has given new meaning to resource justice.”

    He further urged oil companies to remain committed to the three per cent operating expenditure contribution mandated under the PIA, assuring them that the current administration has restored trust and transparency to the system.

    “For once, the Niger Delta is seeing the dividends of oil. What past governments could not achieve in decades is now being delivered under President Tinubu’s watch. We’re grateful to the President and the Niger Delta shall return the Favour in 2027,” Timipre declared.

  • The Seyi Tinubu I know

    The Seyi Tinubu I know

    By Hon. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga  

    I am pleased to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt congratulations to my esteemed leader and colleague, Seyi Tinubu, as he celebrates his fortieth birthday. It is a significant occasion to recognise individuals who have a transformative impact on our perspectives—those capable of reshaping our understanding of effective leadership. Seyi is undoubtedly one such individual: thoughtful, unassuming, influential, gentle, and resolute in purpose. He epitomises a leader who not only uplifts others without seeking recognition but also provides steady guidance and transforms lives with quiet determination.

    These reflections come from someone who has had the privilege of working closely with Seyi. Throughout the intense planning sessions of the 2023 presidential campaign, I witnessed firsthand his profound character and approach to leadership.

    I would like to highlight the remarkable intellect that Seyi Tinubu possesses. His brilliance is evident in the manner he conducts himself—not through grandstanding, but through insightful and strategic thinking. He is a quiet genius who engages deeply with challenges, employs meticulous planning, and identifies solutions that others might overlook. During our numerous discussions leading up to President Tinubu’s historic electoral triumph, I observed a mind capable of envisioning ambitious goals while remaining anchored in reality. Where others may see obstacles, Seyi perceives opportunities for progress.

    READ ALSO: CBN, finance ministry present Nigeria’s economic progress at G24 meetings

    A standout quality of Seyi is his unwavering dedication to nurturing young Nigerian leaders. In a political landscape often marked by competition and rivalry, Seyi’s perspective offers a refreshing alternative. He recognizes the immense potential within young Nigerians and views them as valuable contributors to the nation’s future. Rather than seeing them as mere campaign instruments, he understands that they represent the foundation of our society—individuals who require mentorship, support, and opportunities to grow into competent leaders. This commitment is not simply talk; it informs all of his initiatives and decisions.

    The City Boy Movement, which I have the honour of leading as Director-General, serves as a tangible expression of Seyi’s dedication to youth development. Founded during the vibrant phase of the 2023 presidential campaign, our organisation is designed to be a sustainable platform for youth mobilisation and advocacy. With Seyi Tinubu as our Grand Patron, we are working diligently to channel the energy, creativity, and aspirations of Nigerian youth in alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision of Renewed Hope for our nation.

    Our mission encompasses far more than electoral success. We strive to ensure that Nigerians have a comprehensive understanding of the President’s policies and programs. Our commitment lies in amplifying young voices, ensuring they are not only heard but are also influential in shaping government policies. We aim to provide the next generation of leaders with the training, exposure, and opportunities necessary to achieve meaningful influence and authority.

    I take pride in acknowledging that I, too, have benefited from Seyi Tinubu’s guidance. Recognising those who contribute to our development is vital. Seyi has opened doors for me that could have easily remained closed, sharing his wisdom, connections, and belief in my potential. He embodies the principle that helping others succeed enriches our collective future. His approach fosters a community where capable leaders can bloom, which ultimately strengthens our society.

    What distinguishes Seyi is his remarkable humility. In a political environment often characterised by inflated egos, he remains refreshingly grounded. During our strategic meetings throughout the campaign, I witnessed an admirable quality: he could have easily demanded agreement based on his position. Instead, he chose to engage constructively with opinions that challenged his own.

    Seyi exemplifies the art of effective listening—a crucial skill in today’s discourse. His ability to listen deeply signifies a respect for others’ perspectives. In our planning sessions, I observed him weave together diverse viewpoints, identify overlooked patterns, and develop strategies that respected every contribution while ensuring we remained focused on our shared objectives. This constructive approach is a hallmark of exemplary leadership, and Seyi Tinubu is a prime example of the positive impact such leadership can have on Nigeria’s future.

  • Governor hails drivers at Onitsha rally

    Governor hails drivers at Onitsha rally

    Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has described drivers and transport unions as critical stakeholders in the state’s economic growth and development.

    The governor made this remark during the official endorsement of his re-election bid by all transport stakeholders in the state at a mega rally held at the Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium, Onitsha North Local Government Area.

    He noted that while drivers contribute significantly to the economic development of Anambra, they are also among the key beneficiaries of his administration’s initiatives.

    “My deputy and I appreciate you, not only for your support but also for the vital role you play in driving the economy of the state. You are the lifeline of Anambra’s economy,” he said.

    Soludo highlighted his administration’s efforts in road infrastructure, noting that the repairs and reconstructions have reduced the constant need for vehicle maintenance.

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    “We have fixed many roads, making it less necessary for constant visits to mechanics. You are partners in the progress of Anambra State’s economy.

    We fixed the roads to boost the economy so that the common man can live happily and survive with less stress.

    Many market women, drivers, and other stakeholders in the transport sector have acknowledged the positive changes in Anambra under my leadership,” he added.

    Expressing concern over reports of continued extortion by individuals posing as government agents, Soludo warned against any form of illegal levy collection. He pledged to establish a task force to clamp down on those extorting drivers and traders.

    “Don’t pay any money outside the officially approved government rates. All payments should be made through the government’s digital platforms.

    We must also obey traffic laws and regulations. Traffic offences are serious. If you obey traffic laws, nobody will harass you.

    Anyone who flouts these laws should not only be punished but also undergo a mental evaluation. Disobedience can lead to death, and we don’t want deaths on our roads,” he cautioned.

    Commissioner for Transport, Mrs Patricia Igwebuike, said the rally was organised to demonstrate the transport sector’s support for Soludo’s re-election, acknowledging his achievements in the sector.

    “The transport sector is the biggest beneficiary of the Solution Government. The governor has constructed over 1,000 kilometres of roads, and transporters are enjoying them. They no longer visit mechanics frequently,” she said.

    Coordinator of the Anambra Drivers Forum and Head of the Media Sub-Committee of the event, Comrade Osita Obi, also commended Soludo for his sweeping reforms, which he said have restored order, dignity, and accountability to the state’s transport sector.