Anambra's Local Government Election 2024: The Best So Far

By Ejike Abana

Anambra State has been without a local government election for the last eleven years. The last local government election took place in 2013, few months before the then Governor Peter Obi left office- the election was marred with reports of violence and so on and so forth.

The expiration of the tenure of the chairmen and councillors in the twenty one local government areas and three hundred and twenty six wards, respectively, sparked concerns amongst citizens over the lack of accountability and transparency in local government affairs.

Subsequently, it was on this premise that in 2021, during his campaign and at his 2022 inauguration speech, Governor Soludo variously promised to conduct the local government election within his first term in office. Many did not believe.

No doubt, in the last eleven years, the absence of local government elections in the state has impeded the development of democracy at the grassroots level and has left citizens without a voice in the governance of their communities.

Before now, many stakeholders had criticized the government over its inability to conduct local government elections, noting that it is a fundamental aspect of democracy that should not be neglected.

Some believe that the postponement of local government elections is a deliberate attempt by the state government to control local government affairs and divert resources meant for local development to other projects.

Fast forward to 2024, as a man who believes in "process", Governor Soludo spearheaded the arrangement of the institutional mechanisms and legal framework for the organisation of the local government election. The election would have been held in December this year, but for the Supreme Court judgement that almost made it like an emergency for states without Council Chairmen to quickly conduct their election.

Yesterday, September, 28, 2024, Soludo kept the promise he made to ndị Anambra- a transparent election took place where nine political parties participated. From the video evidence and reactions by the people, the election has been described as the best so far. Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, ANSIEC conducted local government elections, which was largely adjudged to be peaceful, free, and fair. The government's decision to conduct local government elections has been well received by more than 60 percent of citizens, who have hailed the move as a step in the right direction towards deepening democracy at the grassroots level.

Speaking shortly after he cast his vote at his ward in Isuofia, Governor Soludo acknowledged that the reports he got, the electoral process was transparent, free, and fair and expressed his satisfaction with the conduct of the election, which he believes demonstrated the state's growth in democratic values. By affirming the transparency of the election, Governor Soludo reassured the people of the state that their voices had been heard and that the process had been fully inclusive.

It is hoped that the successful conduct of the local government elections in Anambra State will serve as a catalyst for the elected Council Chairmen and Councillors in the state to prioritize democracy and development at the grassroots level.

Many political enthusiasts, stakeholders, citizens, civil society organisations and observers commended the Governor and security operatives for their roles in ensuring that the election was violence-free.

The voter turnout was also a testimony of the people's desire for good governance and transparency at the grassroots level. Commendations therefore goes to ndị Anambra for coming out to vote. It is hoped that their votes produced competent and capable leaders at the various Council Areas.

The just concluded local government election marks a significant milestone in the strengthening of democracy at the grassroots level in Anambra State. The people had spoken through their votes and they had decided to elect leaders who would directly represent their needs. By implication, it is believed that the elected local government chairmen would be accountable to their constituencies and deliver the dividends of democracy.

In conclusion, the Anambra State local government election is proof that Governor Soludo is committed to delivering free, fair, and transparent elections to the people of the State. His commitment to transparency and accountability in governance has continued to yield dividends, and the people of Anambra State can look forward to even more development under his leadership. Definitely, the elected Chairmen will tow this path.

APGA Kicks-Off Campaign With Rally, Ahead Of Saturday 28th Local Government Poll

By Ejike Abana

Ahead of the Saturday, 28th September local government election in the state, the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA has taken to the streets to officially kick-off its campaign.

A rally led by the party's National Leader and Governor of the state, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, to drum and solicit support from ndị Anambra was held at the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka.

Local Government Chairmanship candidates and councillors from the twenty one local government areas of the state, thronged the venue in colourful APGA insignias, seeking to win hearts and minds for the party.

In a speech, Governor Soludo stressed the importance of grassroot election which can further drive development and solicited the people's support for the party to continue its development trajectory across the state.

He added that the conduct of the local government election is a promise made and promise kept, eventhough many did not believe during the campaigns and promised a free and fair election, one man, one vote.

The State Chairman of the party, Barr. Ifeatu Obiokoye emphasized that the party is ready to go in for the elections.

Some people who spoke including the National Chairman of APGA, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, Iyom Bianca Ojukwu, Rt. Hon. Paschal Agbodike, Chief Chinedu Obidigwe, Ozonkpu Victor Oye, Dozie Nwankwo, among others, stressed that APGA is a grassroot-oriented party, generally accepted by ndị Anambra as their development vehicle.

The Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Board of Trustees members of APGA, accompanied the Governor to the event which was attended by a mammoth crowd of witnesses and APGA faithful.

Get Ready As Anambra Gears For Local Government Election

By Ejike Abana

As the State of Anambra gears up for its upcoming local government elections in 26 days time, the stage is set for a showdown between political parties as they vie for control and representation at the grassroots level.

The election, slated for September 28, 2024, will be the first after over one decade; coincidentally under the administration of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, and political pundits have already started to speculate on its outcome.

Having finalized the date and other modalities by Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission, various political parties have hit the ground running, campaigning and strategizing to win over voters.

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), which currently holds all the seats in the state, is expected to face strong opposition from other contenders, but there are very strong indicators that it'll continue to retain its pride of place in the state.

One of the key issues that the electorate will be looking for is good governance. Many residents of Anambra state are very happy with the current state of affairs in the state, judging by the enormous success stories of massive infrastructure upgrade, youth employment, and adequate health care, as well as other social amenities.

As such, candidates who can articulate a clear vision for improving the quality of life for the people are likely to receive greater support. In this regard, APGA, led by Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo is the champion. The "people's manifesto" aptly captures the "future Anambra"; and the present administration is vigorously pursuing its implementation.

Candidates have been reaching out to interest groups across the state, from traditional rulers to civil society organisations, to build support for their campaigns. Over the years, this has been a major strategy employed by APGA, which has made significant inroads into many communities.

Certainly, APGA's dominance is not in any way threatened by the effects of the ongoing family skirmishes in the party as the party is currently embroiled in a battle for control. Despite this, the party continues to wax stronger with each passing day.

Another issue likely to feature prominently in the election is security. Anambra has witnessed a spate of violent attacks in recent months. Candidates who can promise to join Governor Soludo in addressing the security challenges in the state are likely to gain more traction among voters.

Despite these challenges, ANSIEC has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a free and fair election in Anambra. The commission has promised to deploy state-of-the-art technology to enhance the transparency of the process and has called on stakeholders to support its efforts.

Observers have also called for a level playing field for all parties, including strict enforcement of electoral laws and the provision of adequate security measures. They have emphasised the need for peaceful conduct by all parties.

Several initiatives have been implemented to educate the electorate on their rights and responsibilities during the election. The Anambra State Government and other organisations have held sensitisation programmes, town hall meetings and other events aimed at empowering voters and promoting civic engagement.

One of the unique features of the upcoming election is the use of certain novel measures to enhance the participation of residents in the process.

This, coupled with the use of manual means, is expected to enhance the credibility of the process and reduce the incidence of electoral malfeasance. ANSIEC has stated that the processes are tamper-proof and will prevent malpractices.

In addition, the commission has promised to deploy adequate personnel, including security personnel, to safeguard the voting process and ensure the safety of voters and officials. The success of these measures will be critical to the outcome of the election.

As Anambra braces for the local government elections, the stakes are high, with political parties and candidates vying for control and representation at the grassroots level. Good governance, security, and other social amenities will be key issues on which candidates will be judged, while the role of certain measures in enhancing transparency and participation cannot be overlooked.

Ultimately, the success of the election will rest on the ability of all stakeholders, including ANSIEC, political parties, candidates, and voters, to play their part in ensuring a peaceful and credible process. Only then can Anambra take another huge step towards a new era of improved governance and development at the local level.

Ndị Anambra! Trust and embrace the process. The future is here.

Anambra State Physical Planning Board/ACTDA, Are Government Agencies Authorized To Enforce Development Control- Barr. Maduekwe

By Ejike Abana

Anambra State Physical Planning Board, ANSPPB and Awka Capital Territory Development Authority, ACTDA, are the only government agencies authorised to issue demand notices and enforce development control in the state.

The Chairman, Anambra State Physical Planning Board, Barr. Chike Maduekwe made the disclosure at different locations in Abatete and Umuoji, Idemili North Local Government Area, during a joint task force enforcement exercise.

The exercise is part of the efforts of the Board to enforce building control regulations in various parts of the state.

This follows concerns about the rise of illegal structures that are not only an eyesore, but also pose a threat to human safety.

During a recent operation in Idemili North local government area, the task force visited buildings that were deemed to be in violation of the building control regulations.

Several buildings were found to have been constructed without the necessary approval from the authorities.

The owners of these buildings were subsequently issued with notices of violation and given a period within which to rectify the situation or risk demolition of their structures.

Speaking, Barr. Maduekwe emphasized the need for all buildings to conform to the building control regulations.

Barr. Maduekwe also reminded the public that the state government has the power to demolish any illegal structures that pose a risk to public safety, pointing out that recently, the board had been inundated by reports of a group of people alleged to be members of COREN who go about placing demand notices to unsuspecting members of the public.

He asked developers to disregard such people as criminals, eventhough the COREN body in the state had discredited the notices making the rounds, adding that Anambra State Materials Testing Laboratory also has a major role to play in development control.

Barr. Maduekwe emphasized that the board would continue to carry out enforcement across the state in order to ensure that all buildings are constructed in accordance with government approved plans.

While calling on property owners to approach the board within the grace period it gave for ratification and harmonization of building plans and approvals, Barr. Maduekwe reiterated that the period will elapse by the end of October, further urging property owners to seek approval from the authorities before embarking on any building projects.

Failure to do so, he warned, would result in legal action being taken against them.

The move has been welcomed by many members of the public who have long complained about the spare of building collapse and lack of enforcement of building control regulations.

They have called on the authorities to take action against those who flout the laws in order to ensure that all buildings are safe for habitation.

It is hoped that the increased enforcement of building control regulations will result in safer and more attractive cities across the country.

Soludo Welcomes PDP Structure In Anambra Into APGA, Describes Party As "Movement For Development"

By Ejike Abana

No fewer than 1,300 former members of the People's Democratic Party, PDP, in Anambra have collapsed their structure into the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA

The ceremony to welcome them was held today at the Professor Dora Akunyili Women's Development, Awka. 

Governor Soludo who described the day as big in the history of APGA, expressed happiness that PDP in Anambra has woken up and discovered the way, joining APGA movement that will take them to the promised land.

The Governor noted that being a mass movement, every member of APGA is equal and recalled that electronic re-registration of APGA members is ongoing, asking them to take advantage of the opportunity.

He enjoined the new entrants to join hands with his government to build the party as a vehicle for transformation and expressed commitment to using the vehicle to enhance development.

Governor Soludo added that the reinvigorated APGA is deliberate about building human capital in a sustainable way, citing the free education policy, free antenatal care and delivery services for women, distribution of palm and count seedlings, among others as clear examples.

He pledging to do more because APGA is the only platform through which real development will be taken to the people, especially the poor and down-trodden.

Earlier, the State Chairman of APGA, Barr. Ifeatu Obi-Okoye appreciated the Governor for leading the initiative, having created the enabling atmosphere, explaining that it is in tandem with the vision of the party leadership in Anambra state.

One of the defectors, Rt. Hon. Emeka Anyaenetu said that Governor Soludo's people-oriented policies informed their decision to join the APGA movement to help Governor Soludo continue and complete his agenda for ndị Anambra.

Repositioning APGA for National Leadership

By Emeka Ozumba

The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), which prides itself as the foremost progressive political party in Nigeria, was mirred in controversy and unending legal tango across court rooms in Nigeria prior to the election of the Governor of Anambra State, His Excellency, Chukwuma Soludo, CFR; and subsequent election of Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa as National Chairman at the party's National Convention on May  31, 2023. As at the last count, there were said to be over 50 court cases most of which were seeking determination of the authentic National Chairman with the most baffling ruling coming out of a Court in Birnin-Kudu,  Jigawa State.

Whereas doomsday scenarios were being fanned out by pessimists about the future of APGA, the new national executive led by Sly Ezeokenwa, bouyed by the mandate of the party and the national leader, set forth at inception to change the perception of a fractured party to that of a positive pan-Nigerian profile befitting it's motto: Be Your Brothers and Sisters Keeper! As the national executive of APGA marks one year on the saddle, it goes without saying that the ship of the party has been steadied through share diplomacy and accommodation of all as well as deft management of the party affairs inspite of subsisting challenges. 

On the trail of APGA progress within the period, some wonder where the current APGA National Chairman got the dexterity for political party administration. Well, Sly is a scion of the pioneer APGA Local Government Chairman, Onitsha South, Chief Sylvester Okenwa Snr;  aknowledged by many for exemplary dedication and selfless leadership of the party. As the saying goes, "the apple never falls far from the tree," having learned at the feet of his father, Sly's staying power and deft leadership skills

are evident in his patience, dedication and unwavering commitment to duty.

A towering and unassuming young man, sharpened by mentorship and invaluable experience, his intellingence belies his age. Ezeokenwa's philosophy of service and value, is a life shaped by a near death experience long ago. Hence, he has continued to live by these principles in and out of politics.

Fondly called Sly by friends and associates,

Ezeokenwa  started out as the APGA State Legal Adviser, and carried with him the knowledge and treasure troove of the party's history he learned from his father to the legal office where he acted as the clearing house for all the court cases as APGA's National Legal Adviser. He also doubled as an aide to the immediate past National Charman of APGA, Ozonkpu, Sir, Victor Oye whose tenure was largely in the eye of the storm.

As a forward looking political party, Ezeokenwa and his team embarked on "DRIVE APGA" campaign which is an acronym for Discipline! Repositioning! Inclusivity, Visibility and Expansion! They set out by quietly consulting and re-intrgrating stakeholders across Nigeria to the fold. Again, recognizing the import of the bourgeoning youth population and its impact on the Nigerian political lanscape, they're set to commence digital registration to drive membership, and the mainstreaming of young persons to have a sense of belonging and provide leadership. A typical ingredient, is the party's concept of reducing the cost of Nomination to Office by 50% to encourage youth aspirants. 

Ezeokenwa believes that APGA has shown exemplery leadership and profound developmental credentials since the party took the reign of leadership in Anambra State in 2006; stressing that Soludo's record of achievents in two years is a testimonial to the party's ideology of leaving no Nigerian behind through people-based development programmes across health, education, agriculture, human capital, infrastructure development  and workers welfare. As the thirty-one national executives of APGA led by Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa marks one year in office, it is safe to assume that the newly repositioned APGA is on a sustainable path to achieving a leadership of Nigeria's dream. 

A P.G.A! APGA!!!

Ozumba writes from Ward-4 Urunnebo, Enugwu-Ukwu.

Anambra New Permanent Secretaries Hold Training, Brainstorm On The Soludo Mandate, Others

By Ejike Abana

The 18 newly appointed permanent secretaries in Anambra have been tasked on aiding to fulfil the vision and mandate of the Governor Soludo-led administration.

During the opening ceremony of the two days capacity building training held in Awka, Anambra State Head of Service, Barrister Theodora Okwy Igwegbe urged the permanent secretaries to tailor all activities according to the plan of the present administration.

Barrister Igwegbe who made a presentation on "Anambra State Civil Service Strategy and Implementation Plan (ASCSSIP) (2022-2025)", reminded them that their appointment was based on merit, pointing out that it is a privilege that they were appointed out of the over thirty thousand civil servants.

She went on to remind the participants that the training was borne out of the need for improved efficiency and productivity in service delivery in Anambra State Civil Service, as well as a result of the dynamic nature of today's world, which requires that adaptation and improvement be continuous exercises even in areas where laudable feats may have been recorded in times past.

While urging them to execute their job with much zeal, the Head of Service encouraged them not to drag their feet in executing and implementing government mandate and policies.

Barrister Igwegbe asked them not to work in silos, but arm themselves with what she described as five pillars that drive the service, including, capacity building, performance management, service delivery, anti-corruption and staff welfare, which all work, dependent of each other.

Barrister Igwegbe mentioned a number of improvements that has been brought into the system including the gradual movement to digital service, performance management which is an improvement of what obtained in the past, among others, asking them to always ensure to identify the skills, knowledge, passion and interest of people working with them and make it a must to link it to rewards and punishment where necessary in their various places of assignment.

"It is all about using 20 percent to achieve 80 percent in your area of call.

In this job, monitoring and evaluation is important, just as Mr. Governor would always say that if you cannot measure it, you cannot improve it.

"This administration took a look at the challenges facing the service, with a view to tackling them.

"As a civil servant, you are being paid for your time and skills, as such, mismanagement of work hours for personal activities affect the civil service. Hard work doesn't kill someone", said Barrister Igwegbe.

She however emphasized that the mandate is an agenda with a deadline.

Some of the participants including, Dr. Nwabufo Nwankwo, Engr. Martin Agbili and Mr Joachin Acho expressed satisfaction over the import of the workshop, which they explained has energized them more through a better understanding of their core mandate.

They variously assured of giving their best in the service of Anambra State.

The workshop has as its theme, "Strategic leadership: Thriving through challenges and opportunities in governance".

Recall that on March 2024, Governor Soludo identified excellent and high-performing individuals in different fields within the service, appointed and inaugurated them as permanent secretaries after a rigorous appointment process.