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Tag: Soludo

  • APGA committed to credible polls, Soludo vows

    APGA committed to credible polls, Soludo vows

    Governor Chukwuma Soludo has reaffirmed the All Progressives Grand Alliance’s (APGA) unwavering commitment to ensuring a free, fair, and credible governorship election on November 8.

    Soludo gave the assurance during the flag-off of APGA’s local government campaign in Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area, on Wednesday.

    He declared that the forthcoming poll would be conducted under the principle of “one man, one vote”.

    The governor, addressing a large crowd of party supporters, expressed gratitude to the people of Idemili North for their steadfast support, recalling their decisive role in his 2021 electoral victory.

    “We are here essentially to say thank you,” Soludo said. “In 2021, Idemili North gave us a resounding victory. The crucial role you played in the success of our party is remarkable, and we do not take it for granted.”

    Reflecting on recent developments in Anambra’s political landscape, Soludo described what he called a “phenomenal shift” — a growing grassroots movement where communities are driving political mobilisation on their own.

    “Something remarkable is happening in Anambra,” he said. “Communities are sponsoring campaigns by themselves. The people are taking ownership — this is no longer just a political campaign, it’s a people’s movement.”

    The governor commended stakeholders in Idemili North for their continued loyalty and contribution to his administration’s achievements, noting that Anambra was witnessing steady progress across sectors.

    “I appreciate the stakeholders of Idemili North,” he said. “In all areas — education, infrastructure, security, and youth empowerment — Anambra is rising.”

    Soludo also reiterated his long-term vision of transforming the state into a destination for investment and opportunity.

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    “Anambra is turning from a departure lounge to a destination,” he stated, emphasising his administration’s commitment to sustainable growth and inclusive development.

    Reinforcing his message on electoral integrity, Soludo assured that APGA would continue to uphold democratic principles in both conduct and outcome.

    “APGA is steadfast in its commitment to a transparent process. This election will be about one man, one vote,” he reaffirmed.

    Also speaking at the event is Idemili North Council Chairman, Stanley Nkwoka, and Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Community Affairs, Mr Asha Nnabuife, who highlighted the importance of community participation in the state’s democratic process.

    They explained that attendees at the rally were drawn directly from polling units, demonstrating the strong engagement of the people of Idemili North in the state’s political life.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • YPP to Soludo: State in coma

    YPP to Soludo: State in coma

    The governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Anambra State, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has taken a jab at the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, saying the state may not be broken “but in a coma.”

    His remark, made while addressing academics at the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Secretariat of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, on Monday, was seen as an indirect reference to Soludo’s popular 2021 campaign slogan, “Anambra is not broken, but we will fix it.”

    Chukwuma accused the Soludo administration of failing to live up to its promises, lamenting that insecurity, poverty, and poor governance had pushed the state to the brink. “The problems in Anambra are enormous. Every day, people are being raped, killed, extorted, and kidnapped — yet we have a government in place,” he said.

    “Anambra is not broken, but it is in a coma. When I am allowed to govern after the November 8 election, these problems will become history.”

    The YPP candidate promised to make security his top priority, vowing to restore peace and order in the state within his first six months in office.

    Read Also: Soludo blames Obi, Obiano over flooding ravaging community

    He unveiled plans to implement a community-based security architecture, anchored on “community mapping,” which he said would empower residents to take charge of their own safety in partnership with security agencies.

    “If I get your endorsement, the state will be free from insecurity within six months. A committee will be set up to handle security through community mapping, ensuring every community participates actively in protecting its people,” he stated.

    Chukwuma alleged that Anambra receives about N4 billion monthly in security votes from the Federal Government, insisting that the funds have not translated into improved safety or public confidence.

    “The N4 billion being sent by the Federal Government every month for security is enough to solve the problem if properly utilised,” he said.

    He urged residents to stop blaming the Federal Government for the state’s challenges, arguing that the presidency had been consistent in providing financial support to states to address issues like insecurity and infrastructure.

    “Let our people stop blaming the Federal Government. The president has been consistent in releasing enough funds to Anambra. The problem is not at the centre — it’s with our leadership at the state level,” Chukwuma added.

    The YPP flagbearer said his campaign was rooted in inclusiveness, promising to run a government that would prioritise both the educated elite and the working-class population, including market traders, artisans, and farmers.

    “Anambra State belongs to professors and market people alike. It is for everybody,” he said.

    “We are coming to take back our state from a clueless administration and return it to the people who truly own it.”

    Chukwuma also outlined plans to address key sectors such as agriculture, electricity, healthcare, and education, which he described as the pillars of his development agenda.

    He promised to invest in rural electrification projects, strengthen agricultural cooperatives, revitalise hospitals, and make education more accessible and competitive.

    “We will revive our hospitals, support farmers, and ensure that every community in Anambra feels the impact of governance. Our mission is to bring life back to a state that is merely surviving on autopilot,” he declared.

  • Community donates N50m as Soludo unveils renovated school

    Community donates N50m as Soludo unveils renovated school

    People of Ihiala in Anambra have presented a cheque of N50million in support of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s second-term campaign.

    The community made the donation during the inauguration of newly renovated classrooms at St. Jude’s Secondary School, Ihiala.

    Unveiling the facility, Soludo emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive vision for educational reforms in the country.

    He described partnership between government, private sector and the community as critical for driving development forward.

    “This move underscores my administration’s commitment to the Public-Private-Community Partnership (PPCP) policy, aimed at revitalizing the state’s educational landscape.

    “Human capital is the best investment as it reflects a broader understanding of education as a foundational element for societal progress,” said Soludo, who commended Keystone Bank for being a part of the project.

    The Governor also addressed the challenges faced by the public education system upon his assumption of office.

    Read Also: Soludo urges accountability for INEC officials

    “The quality of education can be assessed through public schools. Education can serve as a powerful tool to break socio-economic barriers.

    “We call on public-spirited individuals and organisations to prioritise education and health. Collective effort is essential for fostering more equitable and just society,” he added.

    Soludo urged others to “emulate Keystone Bank’s leadership and commitment to public schools,” laying the groundwork for more comprehensive support for educational initiatives across the nation.

    In her remark, Commissioner for Education, Prof Ngozi Chuma-Udeh, said: “He (Soludo) has been instrumental in creating a state with the lowest number of out-of-school children in Nigeria.”

    Chairman of the Board of Directors at Keystone Bank, Ada Chukwudozie, described the project as seed of hope, inspired by the Governor’s vision for education in Anambra State.

    Managing Director of Keystone Bank, Imam Hassan, said the initiative was carried out under the Keystone Bank Education Support Initiative, acknowledging the challenge of selecting a school amid the Governor’s extensive efforts across various institutions.

    “The project includes upgrades to the administration block, the school hall, ten classrooms, among other facilities, aimed at complementing the Governor’s work,” he added.

  • Soludo blames Obi, Obiano over flooding ravaging community

    Soludo blames Obi, Obiano over flooding ravaging community

    Anambra State governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and his All Progressives Congress (APC) counterpart, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, have made the flooding ravaging Ogidi community their campaign points.

    While Soludo blamed the past administrations of Mr Peter Obi and Chief Willie Obiano for the lapses, including the contractor that handled the project, Ukachukwu, visited the residents with palliatives for victims, assuring them of quick intervention.

    The Ogidi flooding, in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, destroyed buildings, fences, and threw no fewer than 30 families homeless on Monday, with the residents calling for urgent measures.

    Both Soludo and Ukachukwu visited the community for their November 8 governorship election campaigns, and were received by the leaders and residents of the community.

    Soludo, while addressing the people, attributed the severe flooding to the improper termination of the drainage system, stating that previous administrations had left much to be desired.

    “Because government is a continuum, we will take it up to solve the issue, adding that the work in Owelle Aja, Obosi, is currently 70 to 80 per cent complete, highlighting similar efforts in Inland Doors and Nkpor.

    “Flooding is one of the greatest existential threats the state faces.

    While expressing satisfaction with the Ogidi community’s initiative to enforce the establishment of catchment pits in their compounds as a necessary remedial measure, he equally acknowledged the shortcomings of the contractor who was previously responsible for the drainage work, admitting, “I must admit that the contractor did a poor job.”

    For Ukachukwu, the APC candidate, he suspended his campaign rally just to commiserate with the victims of the flooding.

    Some ancient revered shrines, totems, graves, household animals, farmlands, and property worth hundreds of millions of naira, were lost to the flooding, plunging residents into despair and helplessness.

    Ukachukwu, while touring the flooded homes, accompanied by top party and campaign officials, interacted with victims and community leaders, offering soothing words of hope, comfort and tangible support.

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    “What we are witnessing in Ogidi is a clear failure of government.

    “One of the primary duties of any government is to secure lives and property. Once a government fails in that regard, it has failed completely.

    “This incident is deeply tragic and troubling, an experience I would not wish for anyone. I see no reason why, after more than three years in office, the APGA-led government in Anambra State has failed to fix this life-threatening man-made issue.

    “APGA has ruled this state for over twenty years, yet they have only made promises without results. If they could not achieve it in twenty years, how can they possibly do it in the next four years?’  Ukachukwu asked rhetorically.

    “It is time for change, by voting for the APC, and that means voting for me,” he declared.

  • Soludo urges accountability for INEC officials

    Soludo urges accountability for INEC officials

    Governor of Anambra, Prof. Charles Soludo, has stressed the need to hold Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials accountable for their actions.

    He said those who violate electoral laws should be prosecuted and jailed to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process.

    Soludo, former governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, stated this in a virtual message at the Athena Centre’s Review of INEC’s Innovation in Electoral Technology 2015–2025.

    The event was organised by the Athena Centre for Policy and Leadership with the theme, ‘A Balanced Assessment of Progress, Gaps and Opportunity’,

    According to him, some collation officers had declared results in breach of INEC guidelines, making it wrong to protect such officials from prosecution.

    “My idea is simple. During elections, you should not need to know any security agents or election officers.

    “The political parties themselves must be eternally vigilant. We’ve made progress, but we can achieve much more and faster,” Soludo said.

    He commended INEC’s innovations but criticised a proposal to limit its power to review election results.

    The proposal seeks to restrict INEC’s review powers to only cases where results were declared under duress.

    Read Also: Soludo’s wife empowers over 26,000 elderly, supports children, PWDs in Anambra

    “I think that is where the problem lies. Why would INEC seek an amendment limiting its capacity to review results declared unlawfully?” he questioned.

    Soludo highlighted the need for transparency and accountability throughout the electoral process.

    He stressed the importance of gradual improvement and constant vigilance to ensure credible elections.

    Also speaking, Rauf Aregbesola, National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), called for a new direction in Nigeria’s politics.

    He said a fresh approach was vital for building a democratic and prosperous nation.

    According to him, the present political system is flawed and must be reformed to guarantee free and fair elections.

    “We need an environment that allows visionary and honest individuals to contest and win elections,” he said.

    Aregbesola warned against corrupt party structures and political godfathers that discourage credible candidates.

    “Nigeria is the hope of the black race. If this country fails, God forbid, it will be a huge setback for Africa,” he added.

    He urged the judiciary to respect the will of the people and uphold merit, integrity, and transparency.

    The Chancellor of the Athena Centre, Mr Osita Chidoka, said the judiciary remains the greatest obstacle to Nigeria’s electoral progress.

    Chidoka lamented that in spite of technological advancements, court rulings often undermine electoral reforms.

    “The greatest challenge is the judiciary. They keep reversing the progress we have made through technology.

    “Their job is to ensure compliance. Where there is none, the election should simply be redone,” he said.

    Chidoka called for judicial education on the electoral process and said the Athena Centre would host a forum to address this.

    Responding, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to credible elections in Nigeria.

    Yakubu, represented by Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, INEC National Commissioner, said the commission was dedicated to continuous reform.

    “INEC is committed to using technology to improve elections and ensure integrity in the process,” he said.

    He acknowledged the challenges faced in past elections and assured that INEC was addressing them.

    Yakubu added that INEC values contributions from civil society, political parties, and the public in its reform efforts.

    “By engaging with stakeholders and tackling these challenges, INEC aims to ensure that future elections are free, fair, and transparent,” he said.

    (NAN) 

  • Stop this show of shame, Anambra women tell Ekwunife, Soludo’s wife

    Stop this show of shame, Anambra women tell Ekwunife, Soludo’s wife

    Anambra women have called on the wife of the state Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo and Senator Uche Ekwunife to stop their social media tantrums, describing it as a shame.

    The women are angry following altercations between the two distinguished ladies over political office.

    Ekwunife went gaga, following the governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo’s allegation that Ekwunife presented a fake’PhD’ degree instead of telling the public that she had only the West African Examination Council (WAEC) result.

    The governor also mocked the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, that he had F9 in his subjects.

    Soludo further said that nobody would give any woman of Ekwunife’s standing chance to lead Anambra as the November 8 governorship election draws close, calling her names.

    In her response, Ekwunife accused Soludo’s wife of having something to do with the late former Governor of the state, Dr Chinweoke Mbadinuju.

    However, annoyed with Ekwunife’s allegation, Mrs Soludo, challenged Ekwunife and her children to paternity tests, vowing to foot all the bills in London and not in any  Nigerian hospital.

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    She said Governor Soludo married her Virgin, adding that only her husband has had carnal knowledge of her, describing the allegation as unpardonable.

    She has also threatened to go to court if Ekwunife fails to tender an apology within the next 72 hours as her lawyers are already studying the issue.

    “In all my life, I have lived an incredibly quiet family life, shunning publicity. One of the reasons I hate politics is precisely the kind of shameless obscenities from Uche Ekwunife in the name of “politics. 

    “I challenge you, Uche Ekwunife, for us to subject our children to paternity tests. Science has made life easy and there are things you cannot lie about nowadays.

    “To avoid any stories in Nigerian hospitals, let us do it in three reputable hospitals in London. You and your family are often in London. But I will pay the expenses,” Soludo’s wife said.

    Meanwhile, Anambra women have cautioned the two respected ladies to stop the naked dance, adding that what Anambra deserves now is prayers after so much bloodletting in the state by hoodlums.

    Dr Mrs Kate Obidigbo, told Weekend Nation in Awka that they’re already making arrangements on how to call them to order.

    “Some of the high profile women in the state have been detailed to speak with them. Our governor started this mess, he went too hard on Ekwunife and Ukachukwu. That’s not the way to play politics,” the elderly woman said.

  • Ohanaeze backs Soludo as APGA inaugurates 489 campaign councils in Anambra

    Ohanaeze backs Soludo as APGA inaugurates 489 campaign councils in Anambra

    The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has thrown its weight behind Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s reelection bid in Anambra State.

    Anambra state will hold its governorship election on November 8 as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    Already, Prof Soludo and his All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA had announced the composition of 489 member campaign council for his reelection

    Ohanaeze said that as the apex Igbo sociocultural organization it must always support any performing governor in the Southeast geopolitical zone irrespective of his political party.

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    This, was announced by the National Secretary of the body and former Deputy Governor of Anambra State, Mr Emeka Sibeudu at the inauguration venue of the party’s Southeast Secretariat in Awka.

    According to Sibeudu, “It is in line with the policy and position of the Ohaneze Ndigbo that we must support any governor of Igbo extraction that is performing well and Gov Charles Soludo is doing well and we are supporting and encouraging him to continue in that regard.

    “The people of Anambra State can tell the story of his performance as a governor and it is clear that he is doing well and we in Ohaneze Ndigbo congratulate him for his great performance.”

    Inaugurating the campaign council, Soludo said the party was stronger and more united than before, adding that this was in the spirit of being one’s brother’s and sister’s keeper, which is the party’s slogan.

    “This is a Campaign Council of 489 members out of about 8.5 million Anambra people and this being a state movement being part of the membership of the council you are all the apostles.

    “We did it in 2017, we did it in 2013, 2010 but I tell you one thing, there has never been any time in the history of APGA and in the history of the state when the party has been more united and stronger than it is now,” he said.

  • ‘Stomach Infrastructure’ means providing basic needs, not handouts – Gov. Soludo 

    ‘Stomach Infrastructure’ means providing basic needs, not handouts – Gov. Soludo 

    Gov. Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra says ‘Stomach Infrastructure’ is about fulfilling government’s duty of providing essential services that will improve the citizens’ means of livelihood, not handouts.

    Soludo made the assertion on Wednesday at a news conference in Awka to mark the creation of Anambra 34 years ago.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Anambra was created on Aug. 27, 1991, along with eight other states by the then Military President, Ibrahim Babangida.

    He emphasised that sustainable development should prioritise agriculture, access to healthcare, quality education and reliable infrastructure over short-term palliatives.

    According to him, boosting agricultural productivity, creating jobs and improving access to education and healthcare are practical examples of his administration’s commitment to genuine stomach infrastructure.

    “Stomach infrastructure is not about distributing cash or offering appointments as special advisers.

    “It is about ensuring that residents of Anambra have access to the basic necessities needed to live with dignity and rise out of poverty.

    “We have distributed over 2.6 million palm and coconut seedlings to 180,000 households, we offer free education in public schools and free antenatal and delivery in government hospitals.

    “We recruited over 1000 health workers and 8,115 teachers; we are paying N82,000 minimum wage, we have cleared backlogs of pension arrears and gratuities of state and local government workers.

    “We have empowered over 5000 youths and over 8000 will soon graduate and be empowered. Over 600 kilometres out of 800 kilometres of roads have been commissioned.

    Read Also: Anambra’s Nonye Soludo wins humanitarian First Lady Award 2025

    “Deploying public resources to create societal values is better than dashing money. That is what Anambra at 34 is about, our values are based on hard work and integrity,” he said

    The governor outlined key achievements of his administration in the areas of security, urban regeneration, governance, road infrastructure, healthcare, education and economic development.

    He commended law-abiding residents for their support and urged them to continue support the state government policies.

    “Let’s collectively build Anambra of our dream and as your humble servant, I will continue to work round the clock to deliver dividends of democracy,” he said.

    (NAN)