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  • Anambra: Soludo ahead as parties, observers allege massive vote buying

    Anambra: Soludo ahead as parties, observers allege massive vote buying

    With over 99 per cent of the results of the Anambra State off season governorship election uploaded by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at press time last night, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo appeared to be cruising to a comfortable return to office.

    Results from 5,678 polling booths, representing 99.27 per cent of the 5,720 across the states, were public knowledge by 11.04pm yesterday.

    The results pointed to a landslide victory for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (AGPA) flag bearer.

    Trailing Soludo was Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    But it turned out to be a poor outing for George Moghalu of Labour Party (LP), Mr. John Nwosu of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the remaining candidates in the election.

    Also on the ballot yesterday were Sir Paul Chukwuma of the Young Progressives Party (YPP); Oti Echezona of Allied People’s Movement (APM); Chief Jeff Nweke of Action Alliance (AA); Charles Onyeze of Accord; Geoffrey Onyejegbu of New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP); Jude Ezenwafor of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP); Chukwududem Nweke of Action Peoples Party (APP); Jerry Okeke of Boot Party (BP); Martin Ugwoji of Zenith Labour Party (ZLP); and Vincent Chukwurah of Social Democratic Party (SDP).

    The two female candidates were Ms. Chioma Ifemeludike of AAC and Ndidi Olieh of National Rescue Movement (NRM).

    Voters’ turnout was generally low, but the election was peaceful.

    Many of the candidates, including Soludo and election monitors, alleged vote buying.

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) confirmed last night that its operatives arrested three suspects for alleged vote buying during the election.

    The early uploading of the results suggests an improvement in INEC’s deployment of technology in the collation and transmission of election results.

    Governor Soludo won his Polling Unit 002, Umuezeadigo Street, Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area with 417 votes, leaving only four votes for Ukachukwu and none for the rest.

    Ukachukwu himself won in his Umudiala village polling unit in Osumenyi, Nnewi South Local Government Area with 108 votes while Soludo got four.

    The biggest shock is the apparent collapse of electoral support for the Labour Party (LP) and its presidential candidate in 2023, Mr. Peter Obi.

    Obi is from the state which, along with the other South East states, was his stronghold in the 2023 election.

    In that election, he got 584,372 or 95.30 per cent of the total votes in the state.

    But it was a different ball game yesterday for him, his candidate George Moghalu and the LP. The votes return was nothing to write home about.

    Read Also: Soludo’s kinsmen donate N200m for his re-election

    Obi even lost his polling unit 019, Agulu Ward 11, Anaocha Local Government Area to the APC who got 73 votes as against the 57 for Moghalu.

    He alleged yesterday after casting his vote that there was widespread buying of votes.

    He described the practice as “predominantly vote buying to the scale of 20,000, 30,000, 15,000.”

    He warned that for young unemployed voters, accepting such offers undermines their future.

    A similar allegation was made by Soludo, who expressed concern over reports of massive vote buying in Nnewi South.

    “The only concern we have received is in one or two places in Nnewi South where we understand that there has been massive vote buying. Some voters are being paid as much as N15,000,” he told reporters after voting.

    But he was confident of winning.

    Moghalu said he too had received reports of vote buying.

    “The situation is scandalous and very embarrassing. The issue of vote-buying is no more a speculation. It happened very aggressively in the last by-election.

    “This time around, I’ve been receiving reports of the same thing happening,” he told reporters at his residence in Nnewi North LGA.

     He added that he expects security agencies to clamp down on those involved.

    “With the quantity of security personnel that has been brought into Anambra state for the purposes of this election, I expect that vote-buyers by now should have been caught and stopped,” he said.

    He described the trend as “most unfortunate”, and warned that the crime undermines the integrity of the electoral process.

    “The worst form of corruption is electoral corruption. Because by electoral corruption, you put in office people who are not credible, people who are not qualified, people who should not hold responsible offices. At the end of the day, it is the people that suffer,” he added.

    Moghalu said he remained optimistic on the outcome of the election, as he had campaigned extensively and presented his manifesto to the electorate.

    “I’m very optimistic. I’ve done everything I should do according to the rules. I sleep peacefully. I watch everything play out.

    “One of the things I present to the people is my experience, both in the public and private sectors. And I always ask people to verify who I am.

    “Power belongs to God and He gives to whom He pleases. What we are doing is making ourselves available for the will of God to prevail,” he said.

    Ukachukwu of the APC also decried the development, which he called a threat to democracy.

    “If there’s no seller, there cannot be a buyer,” he said.

    Continuing, he said: “Some people have chosen to sell their conscience, which is even worse than those buying votes.

    “When you give up your right for money, you lose your voice as a citizen. You can’t cry later; society must be blamed for encouraging this.”

    Ukachukwu also alleged that one of his agents was assaulted during the election exercise.

    “There have been incidents where people are being beaten up. It’s a form of bullying, and though it may seem right to some today, power changes hands. God gives power to whoever He chooses,” he said.

    Ekwunife, APGA Chairman trade words over disruption of voting in Anambra community

    Ukachukwu’s running mate, Senator Uche Ekwunife, accused the ruling All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) of masterminding the tension that erupted in Nri, Anaocha Local Government Area during the election.

    Ekwunife said that the ‘unprovoked tension’ at Ward 1, Polling Units 001, 002 and 003 was caused by some thugs allegedly hired by APGA with intention to disrupt the voting process in her voting centre.

    She, however, commended the timely intervention of Nri youths and the professionalism of the security operatives on the ground in ensuring that the will of the people prevailed.

    Ekwunife said that the swift action restored calm and allowed voting to resume after a brief suspension of the process.

    She also alleged widespread vote buying during the election period across several polling units in the area, saying that this signified premature level of some politicians vying to lead the people.

    “Why the use of political inducement to sway voters to one side? If you are sure of serving the basic needs of the people, the results will speak for itself.

    “Representatives of some major political parties were seen openly giving money to voters in exchange for their vote support. This is an eyesore.

    “There is an urgent need for my colleagues and the relevant authorities to take more drastic action against vote buying in Nigeria.

    “If this menace is not checked, it will become almost impossible for competent and capable individuals to emerge as leaders and serve their people effectively,” she said.

    Ekwunife’s claims were, however, countered by the APGA chairman in Anaocha Local Government Area, Chief Anthony Ugorji.

    Ugorji said that APGA did not send any group or individuals to disrupt election process in the area.

    He said that he was not an eye witness of the disruption but admitted that a report was sent to him.

    He, however, said that the situation was brought under control for the process to continue, adding that everything eventually ended on a smooth note.

    Observers lament vote buying, low turnout

    Some International and local observers drew attention to reports of vote buying and low voter turnout during the election.

    Reports from Yiaga Africa, European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) II and other partner organisations indicated that voter turnout was low in most polling units across the 21 local government areas of the state.

    Speaking to newsmen in Awka, the Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Mr Samson Itodo, identified vote buying and low turnout as recurring issues observed in the thematic areas of the election.

    Also, Ms Asabe Ndahi of the Kukah Centre decried logistical challenges, including late arrival of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security officials in high-risk areas such as Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Ihiala, Ogbaru, and Nnewi South.

    She added that incidents of vote buying and voter intimidation were recorded in several local government areas.

    The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) said the election was marred by vote buying and apathy.

    Prof. Ernest Aniche, speaking for the CDD, said the election raised concerns about voter apathy, low electoral competitiveness and the fragility of key electoral institutions blaming the apathy on public distrust in INEC post-2023, fears of violence or manipulation and intra-party divisions.

    CDD-EAC said that 72.2 per cent of polling units opened on time, with officials present before 8:30 am, 19.5 per cent opened between 8:30 am and 9:00 am, while 1.5 per cent began operations after 9:00 am.

    “However, 5.4 per cent of polling units experienced significant delays, with officials arriving after 10:00 am.

    “These figures reflect generally effective early deployment by INEC across most areas.

    ““Party agents offered voters up to N10,000 and N5,000, depending on the location. For example, in Achina and in Aguata LGA, agents distributed N5,000 and N2,000 payments to voters.

    “In Anambra South, similar patterns were recorded. At Ichi in Ekwusigo LGA, and Achina in Aguata LGA, with agents distributing cash payments ranging from ₦2,000 to ₦5,000 in rooms situated directly across polling units.

    “At Igboukwu party agents were seen distributing N5,000 to voters openly, without any response or deterrent from security personnel,” he said.

    The CDD West Africa said INEC failed to visibly display the zero count in some locations and for strict compliance with operational guidelines.

    It said the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) failed to capture thumbprints in some cases without corrective measures in place.

    On Security, CDD said personnel were present at 87.3 per cent of polling units observed while 12.7 per cent recorded no security presence at the time of observation.

    “In locations where officers were deployed, the security presence consisted of an average of three to four officers per unit, contributing to a calm and orderly voting environment in most cases.

    “Polling units with fewer registered voters showed inadequate security coverage, which aligns with the 12.7 per cent of polling units that had no security personnel present,” he said.

    EFCC arrests three suspected vote buyers in Anambra governorship election

    Arrested yesterday by the EFCC for alleged vote buying were Emeka Ilokasia, Nwachuwu Loretta, and Emuka Chuwudi.

    Ilokasia was arrested at Ward 2, Njikoka Local Government Area; Loretta was taken into custody at Ward 2(008), Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area; while Chuwudi was apprehended at Umunachi Village, Dunukofia Local Government Area.

    The EFCC confirmed that all three suspects will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.

  • Anambra Poll: Oyo APGA prays for Soludo’s victory

    Anambra Poll: Oyo APGA prays for Soludo’s victory

    The All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) in Oyo State has wished Anambra Governor Charles Soludo victory as he seeks re-election in tomorrow’s November 8 governorship poll. 

    Speaking in Ibadan at a prayer organised to support Soludo’s candidacy, former APGA gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, Comrade Adeshina Adewale (Excel), emphasised the party’s confidence in Soludo’s.

    Adeshina highlighted what he described as Soludo’s remarkable achievements since taking office.

    Soludo, a former Central Bank of Nigeria governor, is running for a second term under APGA’s banner.

    Read Also: IGP lauds Lagos police, vows smooth Anambra polls, festive security

    Adeshina said the prayer gathering was to invoke peace in Anambra State before, during, and after the election. 

    He said: “We pray for calm, transparency, and credible results that reflect the will of ndi Anambra.

    He urged Anambra residents to reject violence or electoral malfeasance but embrace peace.

    The gathering also prayed for APGA BOT member, Deacon Samson Olalere, APGA National Vice Chairman, (Southwest), Chief Suraj Owolabi, and Alhaji Lasisi among others.

  • Soludo’s kinsmen donate N200m for his re-election

    Soludo’s kinsmen donate N200m for his re-election

    The people of Isuofia in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State have donated over N200 million in support of the re-election bid of  Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, their son.

    The gesture came during a grand homecoming ceremony held at the Central School Field, Isuofia, where residents gathered in large numbers to welcome the governor ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.

    According to the organisers, the donation was aimed at securing a decisive victory for Soludo and ensuring the continuity of his administration’s development agenda.

    Speaking at the event, the President General of the Isuofia People’s Movement, Fidelis Okafor, alongside Ifeanyi Ifemelu and other community leaders, declared total support for the governor’s re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

    Okafor said Soludo had remained accessible to his people and responsive to their needs.

    Read Also: Catholic Knights endorse Soludo’s re-election

    “As our son, Governor Soludo has always been available to us, listening to our concerns and addressing our needs,” he stated. “His dedication to grassroots governance has truly transformed the state and projected our community in a good light.”

    Ifemelu, in his remarks, praised the governor’s policies and leadership style, saying they have had a tangible impact on the lives of Anambra residents.

    “His policies have touched every sector and improved the quality of life for our people. He needs to return to the office to continue this momentum. We need his leadership now more than ever,” he said.

    Also speaking, community leader Chief Evarist Ubah commended Soludo’s vision and performance, urging the people of Isuofia to rally behind him at the polls.

    “Soludo has shown unwavering commitment to our state. We must stand by him and ensure he has the mandate to continue his good work,” Ubah declared.

    In his response, Governor Soludo expressed gratitude to his kinsmen for their overwhelming show of support and solidarity, urging them to translate their enthusiasm into votes for APGA on election day.

    He called on all eligible voters to participate actively in the election, describing voting as a civic duty that shapes the collective future of the state.

    “Across Anambra, people say we are the consensus candidate,” Soludo said. “But your vote is your voice. On Saturday, I urge each of you to make that voice heard. Grassroots mobilisation is key to shaping the future of our state.”

    Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, the governor highlighted the progress recorded across sectors since he assumed office, including road infrastructure, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.

    “We have accomplished so much together, but there is still more work to be done,” he added. “Your continued support is vital for us to reach our goals. Election day is not just about choosing leaders; it is about choosing the future we want for our children and generations to come. Let us come together and show the strength of our community.”

    The homecoming rally in Isuofia served not only as a show of political strength and solidarity but also as a celebration of unity, community pride, and grassroots mobilisation ahead of Saturday’s election.

  • All eyes on Soludo, Ukachukwu, as voters decide who can deliver

    All eyes on Soludo, Ukachukwu, as voters decide who can deliver

    As Anambra State winds down campaigns ahead of tomorrow’s governorship election, the air is thick with promises and anticipation. Across Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi, residents are reflecting on weeks of intense politicking and wondering which of the candidates will truly walk the talk.

    The 2025 race has been unusually competitive and policy-driven. Unlike past elections often coloured by personality or sectional politics, this year’s contest has seen candidates present governance plans and measurable targets.

    At the forefront is Governor Charles Soludo, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), who has campaigned on continuity and consolidation. He has promised to sustain ongoing infrastructure and urban renewal projects across the state.

    Soludo’s message — “Ochili mma ga-achi ozo” (He who has led well deserves another chance) — resonates with many who believe his administration has kept the state stable. But critics argue that his campaign has not addressed issues such as job creation, insecurity, and transparency. Some also question the progress of his earlier pledge to make Anambra the “Taiwan and Dubai of Nigeria.”

    His major challenger, Dr Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has built his message around restoration and inclusive growth. He promises to revive the state’s economy through industrial expansion in Nnewi and Onitsha and create a business-friendly environment to attract investors.

    Analysts, however, doubt the feasibility of his plans, citing the absence of clear funding strategies.

    Another notable contender, Chief George Moghalu of the Labour Party (LP) and a former Managing Director of the Nigerian Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), is running on a platform of reform. He has focused on improving security through community policing and boosting education through technology and teacher retraining. Moghalu has also pledged to revive technical and vocational education to empower young people.

    Read Also: Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    Political observers describe his plans as innovative but doubt whether the Labour Party has the grassroots machinery to pull an upset, especially since its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has kept a low profile in the race.

    Others in the race include Chief John Chuma-Nwosu of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and several minor-party candidates. Yet, most analysts describe the election as a two-horse race between Soludo and Ukachukwu.

    Across party lines, the common thread in all manifestos remains the promise to tackle Anambra’s lingering challenges — insecurity, youth unemployment, and poor infrastructure. But beyond rhetoric, few candidates have outlined how they intend to fund or sustain their plans.

    Civil society organisations, including the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG) and Yiaga Africa, have urged voters to scrutinise the candidates’ plans critically.

    “Voters should interrogate the manifestos and the candidates’ capacity to implement them,” a Yiaga Africa official said in Awka. “A good promise without a plan is just politics as usual.”

    In the streets, opinions are divided. At Eke Awka Market, a trader dismissed the campaigns as routine.

    “We’ve heard all these promises before,” he said. “Once they win, they forget the people.”

    But a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, offered a different view.

    “This year’s campaigns were more intellectual,” he said. “If the candidates keep half of what they’ve promised, Anambra will move forward. The problem is implementation.”

    Observers say social media has played a major role in shaping this year’s contest. Candidates have taken to online platforms to defend their records, while young voters use the same channels to demand accountability and transparency.

    As campaigns officially close, the mood in Anambra is one of cautious optimism. Many voters say they will cast their ballots based on credibility and competence rather than party loyalty or regional sentiment.

    Meanwhile, the International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has urged eligible voters to come out en masse and exercise their franchise without fear.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Emeka Umeagbalasi, and two other officials, the group appealed to the over 2.5 million registered voters in the state to resist voter apathy and intimidation.

    It, however, expressed concern over what it called “recurring gun-culture threats” and the militarisation of voting environments, warning that excessive show of force could dampen voter turnout.

    As the state goes to the polls, one question dominates conversations from Awka to Ekwulobia: Who among the candidates will turn their promises into action?

  • Catholic Knights endorse Soludo’s re-election

    Catholic Knights endorse Soludo’s re-election

    Members of the Catholic Order, Knights of St. Michael the Archangel (CKSMA), have endorsed Governor Chukwuma Soludo for a second term, citing his outstanding performance in office.

    President of the Order, Sir James Ezeonu, gave the endorsement during the group’s maiden anniversary, admission, and investiture ceremony, presided over by the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor.

    Ezeonu said the governor’s achievements were enough reason for the people of Anambra to support his re-election bid to enable him to consolidate on his developmental strides.

    “Members of this Order, having critically analyzed the work records of Mr. Governor, join the greater majority of citizens of the state in appreciating his efforts toward fulfilling his campaign manifesto of turning Anambra into a new Dubai,” he said.

    “His free education, free healthcare services, free antenatal care and child delivery, as well as the impressive network of roads and community development projects, are clear testaments to his commitment. These are enough reasons to allow him a constitutional second term to complete his set goals.”

    The CKSMA president also appealed to the governor to assist the group with a take-off grant to build its secretariat and provide an evangelical bus to enhance its outreach within and outside the state.

    Read Also: Suspected cultist, robber nabbed enroute attack on rival group in Anambra 

    Reaffirming the group’s commitment to service to God and humanity without fear or favour, Ezeonu pledged that the Knights would continue to live up to expectations and contribute meaningfully to societal development.

    In his homily, Bishop Ezeokafor commended the Knights for their dedication and assured the Church’s continued support for all groups working toward its growth and the salvation of souls.

    “What you are doing is ordained by God and practiced globally, not only in this Church. The foundation you are laying is critical to your future. The Church is fully behind you,” the Bishop said.

    “The early Church grew both spiritually and numerically through the sacrificial lives its members lived. You must do likewise by living worthy lives so that your group can attract others and have maximum impact,” he added.

  • The transformation of Soludo

    The transformation of Soludo

    In another four days, November, the people of Anambra State will go to the polls to elect a new governor.  The Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) has so far cleared 16 candidates for the battle. Of the 16, Chukwuma Soludo, an outsider and the incumbent governor who joined politics only four years ago however remains the candidate to beat. Political pundits have in fact tipped him to win with a landslide beating all his other seasoned and professional politicians round and square.

    The rise of Soludo is unprecedented. Many are therefore anxious to know the sources of his transformation. In fact, on account of his unparalleled rise and extraordinary performance, not a few believe the Soludo brand will require future studies by intellectuals. Here was a cynical intellectual who has spent his most productive years in the Ivory Tower.  He was a professor of Economics at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; visiting professor at Swarthmore College, USA; Smuts research fellow at Cambridge University; visiting scholar at University of Warwick and Oxford University; visiting fellow at Brookings Institution, Washington, DC; research fellow at UN-Economic Commission for Africa, Ethiopia and a visiting scholar at IMF research department, among others.

    He was a former Finance Adviser to the federal government and one time governor of Central Bank of Nigeria. He was the founding chairman of the African Finance Corporation and has consulted for many international organisations including the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), UNCTAD, and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), and the African Development Bank (ADB), etc.

    Nothing therefore prepared Soludo, an intellectual, a cynical breed that regards all men as fortune hunters, for politics as a calling. Many of his predecessors who took the risk ended up in grief. They were unable to survive in the real world of politics where being a politician itself is a nightmare because all politicians are regarded as tricksters, corrupt, untrustworthy and an unscrupulous breed. 

    Beyond the struggle to protect their integrity as builders of institutions including  bureaucracy without which society decays, involvement of  intellectuals in politics meant learning anew how to survive party intrigues, betrayal by trusted allies and stabbing in the back by those driven by party ambition. And if they survive navigating that purgatory, then comes the true test of being in power – balancing self-interest of pressure groups and that of public interest they are elected to serve. This task, as many who fell by the way side have discovered, often requires a politician’s versatility, brinkmanship and skilful exploitation of innermost fears of the masses in order to satisfy the demand of the rich, the real owners of society and the power behind the throne.

    That Soludo was able to successfully balance the interest of the poor masses of Anambra and the greed of their economic elite regarded as the richest group in Nigeria was part of Soludo’s unique record he celebrated through dancing and rendition of local songs about Igbo folklores and folktales as he carried his campaign message from one Local Council Area to the other. And that was all he needed to win the trust of ordinary people of Anambra who freely added their widows mite to the huge donations from Anambra super rich, to offset Soludo’s campaign expenses.

    But Soludo, a highly resourceful fellow, in spite of that advantage did not take his peoples’ support for granted. He campaigned vigorously, selling a new vision without forgetting to remind his people of fulfilled promises.

     On the other hand, many of his opponents are unknown, are without structures while some launched their campaign a week to Election Day, forcing Soludo to observe: “This is shocking and a mockery for a political party like the APC to flag off its campaign seven days to the voting process”.

    It is not just that Soludo’s opponents in the battle coming up in four days’ time are unprepared; they don’t appear to have anything to sell beyond fear. They are apprehensive that Soludo might rig the election through either vote buying or the use of the state security apparatus to intimidate opposition.

    This was the narrative of three of Soludo’s opponents viz John Nwosu of African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chioma Ifemudilike of African Action Congress (AAC) and Onyekwelu  YPP’s spokesman who stood in for  Paul Chukwuma, candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) during their last Saturday’s encounter with  Channel TV’s  Ayo Makinde.

    For instance, the governorship candidate of ADC, John Nwosu who listed his assets as ‘18 branches of his IT firm’, his expertise as a trained economist and IT expert, has declared that the only thing that stands between him and victory is Soludo’s possible vote buying and abuse of the of Anambra security outfit to intimidate the opposition’. He was silent on the fact that his party, ADC has no structure to man the polling booths in Anambra in an election that comes up in another four days.

    The excuse of Chioma Ifemudilike, the governorship candidate of African Action Congress (AAC), whose party is not known to the masses, and has no structure or even agenda, was not different. The only reason she could lose the election is if Soludo rigs the election. Similarly, Onyekwelu YPP’s spokesman alerted Nigerians that if his principal, Paul Chukwuma, loses, it will not be because his party is unknown but because Soludo rigs.

    This why many believe that Soludo’s opponents have made his victory inevitable. For while they sell fear, he advertises his achievements. Campaigning in Oguata LGA last Saturday, Soludo reminded the people of how he dislodged IPOB terrorists from eight Local Government Areas (LGAs) it controlled before he assumed office in 2021. He also told them of how he employed 8000 teachers, over 1000 doctors and nurses and empowered over 13,000 youths.

    As November 8 draws nearer, Soludo’s records continue to speak for him. The latest recognition came from BudgIT which rated, Anambra State as 2025 Nigeria’s best-performing state in fiscal management, rising from second position in 2024, to beat Lagos to the second, as well as Kwara (third), Abia (fourth), and Edo to the fifth position. Anambra government has attributed the feat to Soludo’s “strategic economic reforms and disciplined financial management, which have placed the state on a sustainable growth path.”

    Read Also: Opposition behind claims of genocide against Christians in Nigeria – Wike

    On the health sector, Governor Soludo’s administration according to his commissioner of health has revolutionised the state’s health sector through the “construction of five new general hospitals and the rehabilitation of over 130 others, including primary healthcare centres, across the state within three years.”

    Soludo’s education policies focus on free and compulsory education from nursery to senior secondary school in Anambra State, “to ensure that children from all socio-economic backgrounds can access quality education and develop their full potential”.

    On agriculture, Soludo has said his agriculture policy in the last three years focused on ‘an agriculture-led transformation in Anambra State to boost food security and create wealth’. To achieve his government set goals, some of his administration’s initiatives include the “Farm to Feed” campaign”.

    The lack of seriousness on the path of Soludo’s 15 opponents is the reason many believe that the problem with elections in Nigeria has always been politicians who exploit our religion and ethnic faults to behave like outlaws. We remember Chief Remi Fani Kayode of NNDP in the First Republic, emboldened by Nnamdi and Ahmadu Bello, swore his party would win the 1965 Western Region election  whether the people voted for his party or not. That sounded the death knell of the First Republic. In 1983, the same group with Walter Ofonagoro as rain doctor spoke of ‘landslide and sea-slide victory in opposition strongholds”. That led to the sacking of the Second Republic by the military. In 2023, the same group led by unprincipled serial cross-carpeters – Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar, driven by greed on the eve of an election splintered their party into three. For two years each of them has continued to claim victory despite the verdicts by INEC and the Supreme Court. Following their rhetoric, their unthinking followers openly canvassed for insurrection or military takeover thereby once again, bringing the past to pain.

    As we have often said, the federal arrangement often produces egocentric men who behave like outlaws. Solution can therefore not come through electoral law but through politics. With defecting politicians almost turning the nation to one party state, the president has the yam and the knife.

  • Final battle in Anambra: Soludo versus opposition

    Final battle in Anambra: Soludo versus opposition

    On Saturday, the off-cycle governorship election will be held in Anambra State.

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared its readiness for the poll.

    It is a battle between the incumbent governor of the state,  and academic giant,   Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, against his opponents.

    Though there are 16 names on the INEC’s ballot boxes, only five political parties have shown enough interest in the contest so far.

    The parties are the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Young Progressives Party (YPP), the Labour Party (LP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    Unfortunately, the major opposition party in the past, the People’s Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate, Jude Ezenwafor, was attacked in Abuja, a few months ago, which has made the party inactive.

    Soludo is recontesting his seat on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

    The other candidates, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu of the APC,  Dr George Moghalu of LP, Sir Paul Chukwuma of YPP and Mr John Chuma Nwosu of ADC, are not relenting.

    The opposition candidates, to tell you they are not joking, chose formidable running mates for the race.

    For YPP, Sir Uzuegbulam Okagbue, a former Chief Protocol Officer to the former governor, Chief Willie Obiano, is the man; Senator Uche Ekwunife is for the APC, Lady Ifeoma Okafor for LP, and Dr Ndubuisi Nwobu for the ADC.

    The five major contenders have been moving around the state, from villages to communities and to the local government areas to canvas for votes.

    Some of them have equally ventured into name-calling. But no matter the pretence, each of them is afraid of the other.

    While Governorname Soludo is relying on the power of incumbency and some of his notable achievements, the opposition contenders believe his best is not good enough to re-elect him

    Again, the governor continues to talk about the progressive alliance between the state and the federal government of the APC to navigate the bend.

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    WHAT MAKES CONTENDERS THICK

     Chukwuma Soludo  (APGA)

     The Isuofia-born professor had vied for the governorship of Anambra State in 2010 under the platform of PDP without success and was trounced by Obi. The genesis of bottled anger.

    The First Class Economist and former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor under the administration of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo was helped by the former governor of the state, Chief Willie Obiano, to win the election in 2021.

    Today, he is not only the Anambra State governor, but also, as one of the Economic Advisors to the President.

    Some residents in the state, especially APGA sympathisers, believe that the governor has done well within the period to merit reelection.

    APGA, as a political party, has turned into a movement in Anambra State. The party has introduced some good and excruciating policies on the citizenry, including the pestle carriers (aka -odo), among others.

    However, if the powers that be at the top stand solidly behind him, the 65-year-old will nick it 21/21, the way Obiano did in 2017, but the forces against his reelection are much greater.

    Some powerful forces in the Catholic Church are against him; the Obi of Onitsha, Alfred Achebe, is not happy with him, alongside many other traditional rulers. The traders in all the major markets in the state are working against him because of his obnoxious tax regime, among others.

    One good thing going for him is his romance with some major stakeholders in the state, like Sir Emeka Offor, Chief Emeka Anyaoku and the 21 local government area chairmen.

    The House of Assembly members are divided currently, while some are with APC and YPP, one of the two females, Hon Nkechi Ogbuefi, is a member of LP.

    The local government areas Soludo is likely to win are Aguata, his place, because of the quantum of work he has done in the area.

    Besides, the Old Aguata Union (OAU), where late former Vice President, Dr Alex Ekwueme, hailed from, always rallies around itself in everything they do.

    The only thing that could shake the foundation there is the presence of Ekwunife, who hails from the area and is the running mate to the APC candidate.

    Again, another obstacle before him in the area is the invasion and occupation of the Biafran agitators in some of the bushes in the communities.

    The communities are Umunze, Ogbunka and Owerre- Ezukala, all in Orumba South.

    Incidentally, those places were the strongholds of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, of the then YPP, who later jumped ship to team up with the APC. Though he is no longer around, his foot soldiers are.

     With the support of the former governor and Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, in Idemili North and South Local Government areas, Soludo may emerge the winner in these areas.

    Ngige had visited him and praised him to the high heavens for his developmental strides in the state. He has not supported his political Party, the APC, since President Tinubu won the party’s ticket en route to the presidential election.

    Moreover, the area is where the former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Anyaoku, comes from. He is one of the prominent backers of the governor in the state.

    Not only that, Soludo made one of their sons, the traditional ruler of Obosi, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, the chairman of the traditional rulers in Anambra State. He replaced the Obi of Onitsha.

    Currently, he has placed an Obosi son and former Minister of Aviation and Co-Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Osita Chidoka, as his heir apparent from the Central senatorial zone.

    In Ekwusigo, it will be like passing through the camel’s eye for anyone to defeat him there because of Sir Emeka Offor’s presence, same in Ogbaru, the home of the Anambra Speaker, Hon Somtochukwu Udeze.

    But insecurity that has ravaged Ihiala and Awka South capital city, will make it a serious battleground for APGA.

    Soludo, since he assumed office, has faced insecurity challenges in many communities, especially along the Ihiala axis, despite claims of successes by security operatives.

    To date, communities like Isseke, Orsumoghu, Lilu, Ukpor, part of Ihiala, and Azia, are being occupied by the unknown gunmen.

    No ceremony is allowed to take place in those communities, unless the agitators permit you. The residents had all abandoned their homes.

    Any burial in those areas must take place as early as between 6-6.30 am, with a specified number of relatives, no more than between 10 and 20, in attendance as decreed by the bush occupants.

    After that early morning burial, everybody will disperse to any town of the choice of family for the funeral, either Onitsha or Nnewi, or Awka. The government is just pretending; the situation is that terrible.

    In Ihiala, it will be an interesting battle because, despite the leader of the state security outfit, ‘Agunechemba’, Prince Ken Emeakayi, coming from there and a billionaire oil magnate, Obijackson, who is backing him too, the APC has a strong presence in the area.

    Soludo relies heavily on the support of President Tinubu to overcome his opponents because of the progressives’ alliance.

    But as a party man who had gone through such a rough road in the hands of Obasanjo before, when he was Lagos State governor, he should know that the party reigns supreme in such situations.

    APC faithful believe that Tinubu will not allow such an opportunity of getting Anambra into the APC fold slip by this time round because it will give him an edge in the 2027 presidential race.

    Again, it will be difficult for Soludo to betray his boss,  Atiku Abubakar, no matter what. Therefore, Tinubu will be sitting on a keg of gunpowder in 2027  if he fails to get the support of his party in the November 8 poll.

    Be that as it may, Soludo stands the better chance of retaining his seat than his opponents because he has already shown his capacity, though opposition may not like this.

    The father of six children has a supportive wife in Dr Nonye, who uses her healthy living exercise to woo many people in the state.

    George Moghalu (LP)

    For the LP candidate, Moghalu, he is counting on the grassroots support and the popularity of the former governor and 2023 presidential candidate of the party, Mr Peter Obi, to scale the hurdle.

    He is also working on the same page with the elected LP eggheads like Senator Victor Umeh, Senator Tony Nwoye, House of Representatives members, Idu Emeka, Prof Lilian Orogbu and Afam Ogene to garner votes.

    They are all Labour Party elected National Assembly members from Anambra State.

    Moghalu, recently, told The Nation that he’s not ashamed of riding at the back of Obi to get to the Promised Land.

    If you are searching for a leader who is honest, capable, and people-centred, Chief George Moghalu stands tall as a beacon of hope for Anambra State.

     His name resonates with integrity, experience, and a passion for development.

    The LP candidate is not just another politician; he is a man whose entire career has been rooted in service, structure, and sincerity.

    Moghalu’s upbringing instilled in him the belief that power must be used not to oppress but to uplift, and those values have guided his public and private life to date.

    The former National Auditor of APC later became the Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA).

    The 62-year-old prioritised bringing in reforms that made the agency more efficient, transparent and responsive to the needs of the people.

    He was one of the few APC members who were not happy because Tinubu won the party’s presidential ticket in 2023.

    Moghalu told The Nation recently in Awka that the November 8 governorship election would be his last, whether good or bad.

    The reason for contesting, he said, is not to enrich himself, not to recycle political rhetoric, but to rebuild trust between government and the governed.

    To bring a new leadership culture that prioritizes results over noise, and governance over godfatherism.

    Already, Moghalu is facing party challenges because the leadership that sanctioned his governorship ticket was removed by the court. His faith hangs in the balance. But he still pushes.

    With the cult followership of Peter Obi, the combined forces of the NASS members in the state in LP, Moghalu stands a chance of making a strong statement.

    Some of the local government areas likely to be battlegrounds between LP and APGA are Anaocha, Obi’s and Senator Victor Umeh’s local government area.

    He is likely to make a statement in Idemili North and South if Ngige willingly backs him. But Ngige is a tricky individual, but highly principled. The issue now is, between Soludo and Moghalu, where does his heart belong?

    Another area waiting for LP is Anambra East, Ayamelum and Anambra West Local Government areas, where Senator Tony Nwoye holds sway.

    Nwoye almost became the governor of the state in 2017 when he contested on the platform of APC, but what saved APGA was the intervention of the then President, the late Muhammadu Buhari.

    The LP senator has done a lot for his constituents, including fixing roads in his domain. He is influential in Anambra North Senatorial Zone, and if calculations are anything to go by, LP stands a good chance of staking a claim in the area.

    And Nwoye will equally have the combined forces of other popular Reps members from the zone, Hon Afam Ogene from Ogbaru federal constituency and Hon Emeka Idu of Onitsha North and South Federal Constituency.

    Moghalu can equally count on Hon Lilian Orogbu, representing Awka North and South federal constituency, another popular figure who was a lecturer at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Unizik Awka.

    So, LP has a strong presence in about nine local government areas in the state already, if the permutations are anything to rely on. But the fear is the possibility of the APGA-led administration using the state-owned security outfit, Agunechemba, against the opponents on Election Day.

    What sets Moghalu apart from others is that he listens, he consults, and he doesn’t fail in answering people’s calls, unlike many politicians, which alone is a big plus for him in this race.

    Paul Chukwuma (YPP)

     He is the youngest among the five top contenders. Sir Paul Chukwuma, before now, was the National Auditor of the APC.

    Though he announced his resignation from the party a day before the governorship primary at the Prof Dora Akunyili Women’s Development Centre, he said his decision would not stop him from supporting President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda. He later teamed up with the Young Progressives Party, YPP, to pursue his governorship ambition.

    Chukwuma is a big entrepreneur and pro-Biafran Chancellor of Olivia University, Burundi.

    The father of six, like Soludo, is loaded academically with no fewer than five different degrees, including Law and made First Class in all.

    Paul Chukwuma was unjustly denied the APC ticket by the powers that be, despite being one of the major financiers of the party both in Anambra and at the national level.

    Some APC chieftains accused him of sabotaging the party and secretly working with Soludo. This, he denied and has been attacking Soludo since he joined YPP. Chukwuma may return to APC after the November 8 election.

    He has built from scratch several successful startup businesses and mentored several entrepreneurs in Nigeria and around the world.

     He hails from Nneyi Village, Umueri, Anambra East Local Government Area of the state. His philanthropic activities cut across several communities in Nigeria.

    Chukwuma owns several companies, including ValuePlus Solutions, Montage Group, Fides Et Ratio, Humble Rocks, among others.

    His campaign message has centred on the failure of the current administration of Soludo and the insecurity ravaging the state, adding that he needs only six months to get things right in the state.

    Political watchers say he joined the race to spoil the fun for the APC candidate, having been denied the governorship ticket by some persons who were afraid of his rising profile.

    They are accusing him of trying to distort the zoning arrangement going on in the state, which was introduced by Peter Obi.

    It was also argued that  Soludo’s predecessor came from the Anambra North zone, and it would be unfair to hand over power to the zone immediately without considering others.

    But Chukwuma is undeterred, as he chose his running mate from the Central zone, Sir Uzuegbulam Okagbue, a former aide to former governor Obiano.

    Though he has repeatedly said he has no political godfather, his closeness with the Catholic Church hierarchy gives him out. He was an ex-Seminarian.

    His chances are also bright, but the YPP is not well known in Anambra. The party was only made popular in the Anambra South senatorial zone, where late Ifeanyi Ubah held sway.

    It will be difficult for Chukwuma to use YPP to dislodge APGA in the state, though everything is possible in politics, the way it is in football.

    Some areas that could be attributed as the strongholds of the party have been occupied by others. Anambra East, where he hails from, will be a key battleground for him with APGA and LP.

    His running mate, Uzu is from Dunukofia, which is a small local government area in terms of population and also a stronghold of APGA.

    YPP has other local government areas it’s likely to make an impact, including Nnewi North, Ayamelum, Anambra West, and Onitsha North and South.

    To win the election will be difficult for YPP, but the candidate and his running mate are loved by many and will make a huge impact, but not win.

    Nicholas Ukachukwu ( APC)

     When Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu emerged as the candidate of the APC during the party’s primary, some members of the party left and joined other political parties.

    They accused him of hijacking the process with his enormous wealth. But the primary was conducted in a free atmosphere.

    At 58 years, he stands another chance to stand for the position in future, if his party fails to win the November 8 election.

    The man, popularly referred to anywhere he goes as Ikukuoma (Wind of Glory), is a man of means, but not as educated as the two Chukwumas and Moghalu.

    He hails from  Dimala village, Osumenyi, Nnewi South Local Government Area. He is an international and well-accomplished businessman.

    He is the Founder  and Chairman of SNECOU Group Limited, a conglomerate with major investments in Construction, Oil and Gas and the Founder of British Nigeria Academy and European University of Nigeria (EUN)

    He has other investments like, Prince and Princess Estate, Good Homes Estate, Shalom Villa Estate, among others.

    Before now, he served as an elected Executive Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) in 1997.

    From there, he was elected to the House of Representatives in 1999, representing AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

    He contested for the Anambra South Senatorial seat in 2023, won that election, but because of the power tussle then between him and the Ubas, he was stopped.

    He had contested the governorship under the defunct Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) and HOPE Party in 2006 and 2010, respectively.

    One thing going for the APC candidate in this election is his choice of running mate, in the person of Senator Ekwunife.

    Ekwunife is a political caterpillar in Anambra and a grassroots mobilizer, loved by the masses.

    Ukachukwu is not loved by many, not as a result of his party, but because they see the arrogance of Soludo in him.

    He wants to leverage the APC being at the centre to get to his destination. But he is not helping himself with the calibre of people around him.

    Observers think that such characters may give him and Ekwunife the opportunity of winning the election.

    Besides, certain governors are against his emergence as the party’s flag bearer and are doing everything to stop him from winning.

    However, his Nnewi North and South flag bearers no go areas for any other political party in the state.

    There are going to be key battlegrounds between APC, APGA and LP in the state. These local government areas are Anaocha, Njikoka, Dunukofia, Idemili North and South, Onitsha North and South, Awka North and South, Ihiala and Ogbaru.

    If, indeed,  the federal government is in support of APC in Anambra State with the party’s governors, then, it’s not going to be a tea party for APGA.

     John Chuma Nwosu (ADC)

     The candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is not popular in the state.

    But his running mate, Dr Ndubuisi Nwobu, is more popular and has played state politics and held positions than the candidate.

    The Oduda, Nnewi-ichi born entrepreneur and Economist, had high hopes of leveraging on Peter Obi’s popularity when he got the ticket.

    But that anticipation is being dashed as the party continues to swim in crisis at the national level, with even Obi’s hopes of presidential ambition hanging in the balance.

    Nwosu’s running mate, Nwobu, had before now, been the state chairman of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (CAN) and chairman of PDP in the state.

    The ADC candidate, who is an advocate of grassroots campaigns, is the  Chief Executive Officer of Jetlink Group Ltd., an ICT company with business affiliations and interests in the Central Bank of Nigeria, EcoBank Plc, Jaiz Bank, Fidelity Bank Plc, among others.

    He was gunning for the LP governorship ticket and later switched over to ADC when it dawned on him that Moghalu was the obvious choice of Obi.

    The decision pushed the former Secretary to the state government, Mr Oseloka Obaze, an unrepentant Obi ally, out of LP.

    Political watchers say he has no impact in the governorship race on Saturday, saying he won’t win even a single local government area out of the 21.

    The only local government area where the ADC impact will be felt is in Awka South,  where the party’s running mate hails from and even served as a Council chairman in 1999.

    For Soludo, it seems the coast is clear, based on his footprints on the ground, but if the higher authorities intervene, then there will be a struggle along the line.

    The campaigns by all the parties have centred on insecurity in the state and vote buying stunts being pulled by the government in power.

    APGA and APC have already rolled out the drums, including LP, waiting for the declaration of the results by the INEC. The three parties are hopeful of emerging victorious at the end. However, the residents are keeping their fingers crossed.

    Chioma Ifemeludike (AAC)

     Chioma Ifemeludike, a Nollywood actress, is the gubernatorial candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC).  She may not be one of the leading candidates, but the recent events, especially the sympathy of Omoyele Sowore, the Chairman of ACC, for the plight of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has endeared many to her.

    Ifemeludike is one of the few women from Anambra who dared to take a shot at politics. “In AAC, we believe in women’s leadership. God and my ancestors will bear me witness that I am willing to give my all to win this election, unless society says otherwise,” said Ifemeludike.

    She has a robust 33-page programme, where her vision for the Anambra State has been encapsulated.

    She gained traction online recently after sharing a series of campaign photos and videos that spotlight her message of inclusive governance and challenge long-held patriarchal beliefs in politics.

    Her strength is the cult following she has among youths, and if they can mobilise support for her, just the way they did for the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, durin the 2023 presidential election, she is going to make a serious impact.

  • Soludo celebrates Nnewi monarch at 100

    Soludo celebrates Nnewi monarch at 100

    Anambra Governor Chukwuma Soudo has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Dr. Kenneth Onyeneke Nnaji Orizu III, the Igwe of Nnewi, on the occasion of his remarkable 100th birthday today.

    The Governor, in a congratulatory message by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime described reaching the age of 100 years as an extraordinary feat that symbolised divine favour, resilience, and blessing of longevity.

    The statement reads, “This significant centenary milestone in the life of Igwe Orizu III is a historic achievement which gladdens the heart and stirs admiration for a long-reigning monarch with undiminished vigour, wisdom, exceptional leadership, and dedication to the service of his people.

    “What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that His Royal Majesty has retained all his mental and physical faculties, continuing to discharge his royal duties with the same sagacity, clarity, and wisdom that have defined his illustrious reign for 62 years

    “Throughout the six decades, His Royal Majesty has been a bastion of stability in times of change, a voice of reason in moments of tension, and a bridge-builder when division threatened. 

    “His enduring reign represents continuity, institutional memory, and the preservation of cherished cultural heritage in an era of rapid transformation. 

    “The Igwe’s contributions to Nnewi, Anambra State and Nigeria transcend traditional ceremonial functions to include fostering peace and harmony, and creating an environment conducive to economic development and social progress. 

    “Thus his national honour as a Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and his appointment as a Justice of the Peace (JP) reflect the high esteem in which he is held at the national level.”

    While conveying his earnest congratulations and appreciation to the monarch, Soludo wished him greater divine grace, fulfillment, vitality, and many more years of wisdom and guidance as his reign continues to bring prosperity, peace, and progress to Nnewi and Anambra State.

  • Soludo targets 21 general hospitals, renovates 130 PHCs in Anambra

    Soludo targets 21 general hospitals, renovates 130 PHCs in Anambra

    Anambra State Government has reassured of commitment to the vision of having one functional General Hospital in every local government area of the state.

    Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, who stated this in a press conference shortly after tour of health facilities across the state said Governor Chukwuma Soludo had been intentional about bridging healthcare gap between urban and rural communities. 

    According to him, the facilities scattered throughout the state were part of Soludo’s efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery, especially in rural and underserved communities.

    He said: “Mr Governor is intentional about bridging the healthcare gap between urban and rural communities. No Anambra citizen should die because they cannot afford or access medical care.

    “So far, we have renovated 130 primary healthcare facilities in the state. Our intention is to have one functional primary healthcare per ward and one functional general hospital per local government. 

    “When we came on board, almost six LGAs are without a general hospital but today, the story has changed. We have put 5KVA solar in all the 326 PHCs in the state. 

    “We are getting to the Second Phase of PHC s, we have done 130 with solar light and water in 326 PHCs. Last year, we won the Best PHC Leadership Challenge and smiled home with N1.2million dollars. 

    “To fill the gap in healthcare system, we built a Trauma Centre, which will be totally digitized with intensive care unit, burns session among others.”

    Some residents of Ayamelum who spoke to journalists during the visit, recounted years of hardship and loss from lack of healthcare, describing it as ‘a daily struggle’, before commissioning of the General hospital in the area.

    Mrs Nneka Okafor, a farmer from Umumbo community, recounted losing a relative during childbirth because they could not reach a hospital in time.

    “We used to travel several miles by motorcycle just to get medical help at Umueri. Sometimes, people died on the way.

    “My co-wife went into labour one night, and before we could find a motorcycle to take her to the general hospital in Umueri, she passed away. I can never forget that loss.

    “Now, we have a hospital right here in our community. That alone gives us peace of mind,” she said.

    Among the health facilities visited during the tour were General hospital, Anaku, Ekwulobia, Specialist Hospital, Fegge, Rehabilitation center, Nibo and Trauma Centre at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka.

  • Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    Parents of public school pupils for Soludo

    Anambra State Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, has said that parents of public school pupils under the aegis of the Solution Parents League, have endorsed Governor Chukwuma Soludo for a second term in office.

    Prof. Chuma-Udeh disclosed this while speaking with reporters on the governor’s achievements in the education sector.

    She said the parents, through the Solution Parents League, had pledged to ensure a landslide victory for Governor Soludo in the November 8 governorship election, describing their support as an expression of gratitude for his education reforms.

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    According to her, the parents’ endorsement followed the success of the administration’s free education programme, which she said had significantly eased the financial burden on families across the state.

    She said: “The Solution Parents League applauded the Solution Governor for the free education programme, which has positively touched the lives of every child and parent in Anambra State.

    “In support of Governor Soludo’s re-election, the League has already staged a one-million-man march in Awka, Onitsha, and Nnewi. Tomorrow, it will be the turn of Ihiala.

    “After that, the group will move into various communities and wards to mobilise more support to ensure that this education-passionate governor returns to continue his good works for another four years.”