APPRAISING THE NEW PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN ANAMBRA EXECUTIVE/LEGISLATURE UNDER GOVERNOR SOLUDO

By Ejike Abana

On Monday, August, 21, 2023, members of Anambra's Executive and Legislature embarked on a two-day retreat.

With the understanding of its importance, both arms of government are certainly on the verge of forging a stronger bond towards achieving the "One Anambra Agenda."

The Retreat had the theme "Strengthening Leadership Collaboration For Effective Governance And Delivery Of The Anambra Agenda". The Tony Blair Foundation helped to facilitate the meeting which also had break-out sessions, thematic discussions, among others.

At the end, the bi-governmental arms' retreat which was held at the Golden Tulip Hotel, Agulu, turned to be the needed 'oil' for the wheels of progress and advancement of Anambra State.

The retreat meeting which is probably a first in the region, offered a unique opportunity to deliberate on a wide range of issues affecting ndị Anambra.

By virtue of being held outside the usual chambers of government in a more relaxed and informal environment, it allowed participants to express themselves more freely. The retreat provided an opportunity for the state lawmakers, policymakers, and their staff to have in-depth conversations about important issues that require immediate or long-term solutions. 

For the executive arm of government technically led by the Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, the retreat meeting provided an opportunity to interact with lawmakers from different political parties and ideologies. It allowed the executive to present its policy initiatives and legislative agenda for the future, to the legislature for deliberation. Also, the retreat meeting created a mutual understanding between lawmakers and policymakers, which will eventually lead to better coordination and alignment of government activities.

On the other hand, the legislative arm of government, led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, ideally utilized the retreat meeting to push for its own policy initiatives and urge the executive to prioritize its legislative agenda. It enabled the lawmakers to pitch their ideas to policymakers and engage them in meaningful discussions on how to address issues that affect their constituents. Additionally, the meeting was used to enhance the capacity of lawmakers, especially in areas where they lack expertise.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo who addressed the media on the sidelines of the retreat emphasized that the basic agenda of the present government is to enthrone a liveable and prosperous smart mega city. 

According to the Governor, only one ball exists in the field which is project Anambra, irrespective of party differences, pointing out that the determination to make the state work is unflinching. He spoke on the huge Anambra agenda with a deadline, deploying the Vision 2070 Report, the Solution Manifesto and the Transition Committee document. Governor Soludo also stressed that it is an agenda with limited resources, maintaining that Anambra people are in a hurry to witness transformation of the state from largely being a departure lounge to a place where people will love to live, work, relax and enjoy.

The Governor who reeled out the five pillars of his administration to include, security, law and order, economic transformation, human capital and social agenda, governance and value system as well as environment, emphasized that relative to his government's resource-base constraints, appreciable progress is being made by prioritizing the use of those resources.

In fact, ndị Anambra should be desirous of such partnership. Gone are the days when 'fist cuts' between the Executive and Legislature is seen as symptom of progress or enactment and promotion of the people's interest. Such retreat meeting offers a veritable platform to promote inter-branch relationships among different arms of government.

It is an opportunity for participants from different branches to interact, build relationships, and deepen their understanding of each other's areas of responsibility. Such relationships are essential in strengthening the state's democratic governance and improving the delivery of public services. It enables participants to engage in honest and open discussions without fear of reprisal or political backlash.

It is evident that Governor Soludo and Rt. Hon. Udeze understand that retreat meetings can also be used to build consensus among participants on issues of state importance. Consensus-building is essential in the legislative process, especially where lawmakers come from different political parties and have divergent views on certain issues. It provided an opportunity for participants to understand each other's perspectives and arrive at a common understanding that can lead to the formulation of effective policies and programs.

In conclusion, it is essential for Anambra State government to hold such retreat involving the executive and legislature, to foster sustainable democratic governance in the state. It should be encouraged to continue because it is important in promoting dialogue, collaboration, and cooperation in addressing critical challenges facing the state; moreso, engendering the "Anambra Agenda" of a liveable and prosperous smart mega city where ndị Anambra and the likes will love to live, work, relax and enjoy.

Anambra Power Commissioner, Chukwuemeka Rally Support For Over Three Thousand Enugwu-Otu Aguleri Women

By Ejike Abana

Anambra State Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr. Julius Chukwuemeka has rallied support for over three thousand women in Enugwu-Otu Aguleri, Anambra East Council Area.

The Commissioner who took part in a closing ceremony to celebrate this year's August meeting in the community, supported winners at the "Itunyaka" special dance competition with various gift items.

In the midst of a blend of cultural beats and applause by cheerful women and other members of the community, the meeting which is an annual event attracted women from all works of life who assembled at Ama Enugwu to make positive deliberations on how to better their lives, respective families and generally develop Enugu-Otu Aguleri.

Mr. Chukwuemeka who was Chairman of the occasion and indigenous to the town, extolled the women of Enugwu-Otu Aguleri for organizing such a meeting geared towards developing their town and said that the Soludo-led administration is supportive of women through different empowerment programs.

"In case you don’t know, I am a village boy. The colourful meeting reminded me of my root through Okpuko farm settlement to where I am now.

"I was privileged to sponsor “Unyaka” and “Ikenge”competitions for the women. Unyaka is cultural dance among “umu agbala”(married women) while “ikenge” is cultural dance by teenage girls, especially during the moonlight.

"The last major Ikenge outing in Enugu-Otu was in 1999/2000 when Late Mr. Odumegwu Nwachu and Mrs Avulenu Chukwuma Obaya led a group of teenage girls with Chugo Nwanne dark and Ijeoma Obidike echoing the age-long Ikenge music. The Unyaka competition was opened by Mrs. Obiamma Anekwe, an old woman who may be in her 80s now. She was known to be the best performer of Unyaka during her time.

He noted the importance of restoring some of their cultural practices which are almost going into extinction, encouraged them to always ensure to make sacrifices while training their children and wards as away to support government in fight against criminality.

According to Mr. Chukwuemeka, such sacrifices pays off and asked them to ensure to contribute their quarter, respect constituted authority and leaders, so as to move the community forward.

Speaking to the ABS, the chairperson of the Enugwu-Otu Aguleri women wing, Mrs. Juliana Iwuno said that the annual general meeting brings women in seven villages of Enugu-Otu Aguleri together to discuss things that affect them, saying that this year's August meeting availed them the opportunity to teach their women better ways to live peacefully in their various families.

She also charged women to discourage their children and wards from indulging in social vices and called on government to come to the community's aid in terms of distribution of social amenities.

Highpoint of the event was the reintroduction of a special dance called "itunyaka"competition where a widow, Mrs Ndidi Nnaemeka emerged winner and went home with brand new motorcycle.

Mrs. Ugorji Azo came second and received 32 inches plasma Television while Mrs. Awele Chiezie who came third went home a Hollandaise wrapper.

Speaking on behalf of the other winners in an interview, Mrs. Ndidi Nnameka expressed elation for participating and emerging winners, commended the Commissioner for ensuring the restoration of the almost lost "Itunyaka" dance.

The Commissioner was presented with an award of recognition during the event which also had the traditional ruler of Enugwu-Otu Aguleri, Igwe Emmanuel Ejimofor in attendance.

Soludo Is The True Ambassador Of Community Development And Democracy- Commissioner Nwabunwanne

By Ejike Abana

The Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr. Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne has eulogized Governor Chukwuma Soludo as a true Ambassador of democracy and development in Anambra Communities.

Commissioner Nwabunwanne stated this shortly after being honoured at the Government House, Awka as Ambassador of Development and Community Democracy by Freenews Magazine.

Free News Magazine is Published by Obev Industries Ltd, a Port-hacourt, Rivers State based Mass Communications Firm.

Receiving the award, Mr. Nwabunwanne who dedicated the recognition to Governor Soludo and the people of the state, stressed that the first line of charge for the present administration is respect for the rule of law which is being greatly replicated by the ministry in Anambra communities.

"Under Governor Soludo's mandate, we are able to match out his vision and mission within this short period in office. It is an incredible privilege to be recognized for our dedication to promoting and upholding the principles of democracy in Anambra Communities.

"As a strong apostle of Prof. Soludo, I dedicate this award to the governor and to the people of Anambra State.

"Democracy is not just a political system, it is a way of life. It is about ensuring that every individual has the right to participate in society and have a say in their own governance. It is about the freedom to express oneself and the right to be heard.

"As Ambassadors of Democracy in this administration, we always strive to promote and uphold these principles in our personal and professional lives. We have worked tirelessly to empower people to participate in the democratic process, to ensure that their voices are heard and their opinions are represented", emphasized the Commissioner.

The Commissioner observed that it is not always an easy journey, but that the award signifies that their efforts have not gone unnoticed.

"It is a reminder that we must continue to fight for democracy, to stand up for what we believe in and to never lose sight of the importance of freedom and equality.

"Notwithstanding the fact that a lot has been done, this recognition will spur us to do more", the Commissioner noted.

While expressing gratitude to God that the world is beginning to recognize the concerted efforts of the Governor through the Ministry, Commissioner Nwabunwanne pointed out that the award is not just a recognition of their efforts, but is also a testament to the importance of democracy in nascent world.

He thanked the Governor and the people of the state for the opportunity to share his passion and commitment to democracy with others and expressed optimism that the synergy with the people will continue towards a more inclusive and democratic world.

Presenting the award earlier, Chairman, Editorial Board of Free News Magazine, Mr. Obinna Mbonu said that the award is in recognition of the Governor's efforts to enthrone peace and development in Anambra State.

"We are motivated by the peaceful town union elections conducted in about forty towns where we keenly followed. We know that the idea is to eliminate the past record of dictatorship through caretaker committees which has actually been dismantled".

Mr. Mbonu added that to a great extent, they discovered that the governor has achieved a lot, with the help of his lieutenants, particularly the Commissioner for local government.

"Ever since the governor appointed transition committee chairmen, there has been effective synergy existing between the ministry in charge and the chairmen. We commend the existing unity in terms of driving the vision of the Governor.

"It has to do with character, confidence and commitment to ensure that the mission and vision of the Governor is implemented in the 179 communities in the state", Mr. Mbonu concluded.

President General of Anambra State Association of Town Unions, Barr. Titus Akpudo was also present at the occasion.

Soludo's Government Cannot Be Sabotaged Into Truncating The Wish and Good Of Ndị Ifitedunu- Commissioner Nwabunwanne

By Ejike Abana

The Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr. Collins Nwabunwanne has explained that the ongoing rattle in Ifitedunu, Dunukofia Council Area is part of effort by a stakeholder who feels he owns the community, to sabotage government into satisfying his whims and caprices.

Commissioner Nwabunwanne who stated this while reacting to claims in a section of the media where one Chief Vincent Udobi called for his sack, stressed that no single individual is bigger than government, as such, cannot dictate to her.

The Commissioner who explained that when it comes to affairs in Anambra communities, government through the Ministry has a role to effect checks and controls, to ensure peace and stability, pointing out that the Soludo-led administration cannot be sabotaged or cajoled into taking action that is not in the interest of a greater number of the state citizenry, particularly members of Ifitedunu community.

While dismissing the claims made by Chief Udobi as a figment of his imagination, the Commissioner emphasized that Chief Uchenna Nwoye remains the President General of Ifitedunu unless he is removed by the people through the process stipulated by the constitution of the Community.

Said the Commissioner; "in today's world, rumors and false stories can spread quickly, especially with the power of social media. These stories; though easy to conjure, can harm the reputation of individuals, particularly those who hold important positions in society.

"It is not uncommon for someone to resort to a campaign of calumny, which refers to the deliberate spreading of false information about someone with the intention of damaging their reputation.

"In Governor Chukwuma Soludo-led administration, public interest is our top priority.

"When we came onboard, almost all the communities in the state were caretakers; everybody assumed to be a warlord, and would want to be the person that will take the decision on behalf of their Communities.

"We decided to reconcile all the communities, to give back power to the people, to allow them to elect their leaders by their constitution.

"There was a caretaker in Ifitedunu. But the issue is that we had announced that we no longer wanted a caretaker, eventhough we are mindful of the fact that there are some communities that stipulated when to conduct community elections in their constitution. So, what we did was to allow every community to get to that point and we conducted their elections", the Commissioner explained. 

Commissioner Nwabunwanne further noted that in December, 2022 alone, over eighty elections were conducted across communities in the state, pointing out that as at today, they had conducted more than one hundred elections, following the constitutions of those communities.

"When the tenure of the caretaker committee in Ifitedunu expired, they came for renewal and we said no, that we needed to go for election, which we did.

"Before then, there was a petition from the Traditional Ruler and the PG, alleging that he was unlawfully removed from office. We went to the file, and discovered that no single report was made before his removal from the office. We investigated further and discovered that what he was saying had some merits, alongside what the traditional ruler said.

"We then reached out to select stakeholders in the community. In fact, they conducted the election.

"We also reached out to the other party but they refused all entreaties.

The Commissioner emphasized that the government reinstated Chief Nwoye following the committee report, as a result of which peace returned to Ifitedunu and appreciations have been flowing in, commending Governor Soludo ever since.

He said however, that to his chagrin, criminal charges were eventually leveled against Chief Nwoye.

"This part is not really the business of the Ministry. Our stand is that if anybody has a criminal charge, they should face it. We are aware that a judgement was obtained where the PG was convicted of cyber crime, to which the PG already appealed.

"According to the constitution of Ifitedunu community, when something like this happens, you call a general assembly, where the two third majority of members of the community would vote him out based on the offence; and the general assembly which is always done at fourth year of every December, should be convoked by the Traditional Ruler or the PG.

"They had already declared another person PG before writing my office. This is an afront to government. They did not even follow the process of removal as stipulated in the constitution of Ifitedunu", the Commissioner maintained.

"This process was flagrantly flouted and we will not support such illegality that is not in the best interest of the masses"; concluded the Commissioner.

Anambra Education Commissioner Clears Air On Closure As Blessed Wisdom Model School Tenders Apologies

By Ejike Abana

The Commissioner for Education, Professor Ngọzi Chuma-Udeh has explained that the government of Anambra State only put a temporary ban on Blessed Wisdom Model School, Onitsha. 

Professor Chuma-Udeh who spoke to journalists at her office in Awka, stressed that the reason was to give the school management ample time to placate the family of the injured child being part of the recommendations of the committee set up by government.

Recall that less than one month ago, the case of a two-year-old female child attending the school who was injured with a cut tongue and broken femur emerged which led to the temporary closure of the school following petitions by the family.

The circumstances behind the injury were whether the child fell while playing or a book shelf fell on her. 

The Education Commissioner pointed out that the Ministry acted on a petition to Governor Chukwuma Soludo through the Ministry of Education, lamenting, however, that the school management remained recalcitrant, even though the state only arbitrated between the school and the aggrieved parents.

She noted that in spite of the happenings, the state government was dragged to court by the proprietor of the school despite writing an apology letter to the state state government through the State House of Assembly where the Ministry was mandated to re-open the school.

The Commissioner who stressed that every Anambra child belongs to the State government, said that the Ministry of Justice has been notified to continue with the matter.

The Education Commissioner further explained that Governor Soludo as an educationist is desirous of raising technologically competent children which has over the months translated into accolades, awards and achievements.

She announced that part of the achievements of the Governor in the sector include recruitment of five thousand teachers, improvement of the teachers' welfare , scholarship scheme for one hundred and eighteen students in secondary schools across riverine areas, among others.

Speaking to the media, however, the Proprietress of the school, Mrs. Ifeanyinwa Nkamigbo hinted that the school management had apologized to the State ministry of education and the family.

Mrs Nkamigbo stressed that the lawyer does not have the mandate of the school to write the purported letter of apology written through the State House of Assembly, revealing that they had also accepted to begin to cater for the welfare of the child.

Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Christian Aburime and senior officers in the Ministry were also present at the briefing.

Five South Governors Meet On Security, Other Matters Bedeviling The Region

By Ejike Abana

Governors of the five south East states including Imo, Anambra, Abịa, Ebonyi and Enugu have resolved to wrestle widespread insecurity ravaging the region, to the ground.

Rising from over five hours meeting at the Enugu State Government House, Enugu, the Governors expressed unanimous views that the unrest in the region has nothing to do with agitations.

In attendance were Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, and Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi.

Presenting the Communiqué on behalf of the others, Chairman of the forum, Senator Hope Uzodinma extolled the efforts of the security agencies who are ensuring the enthronement of peace in the region, pointing out that stability is gradually being restored in incremental proportion which the forum explained is as a result of the synergy existing among security agencies, as well as the government and people of the region.

While declaring that the perpetrators of insecurity and their sponsors are regarded as criminals who should not be dignified as legitimate agitators, the forum stressed that those criminals will be dealt with, in line with the provisions of the law.

They added that they are resolute about building a common strategic socio-economic and security fellowship at a summit which will be announced on a later date.

The communique read: “The Forum firmly resolved to fight insecurity decisively in the region individually and collectively, in partnership with the Federal Government and other Stakeholders

We commend the security agencies for their cooperation thus far and encourage them not to relent.

“We wish to state categorically that the perpetrators of the insecurity in our region and their sponsors are criminals and should not be seen as legitimate agitators. Therefore, upon arrest, they should be dealt with in accordance with the laws of the land.

The Forum resolved to hold the security and economic summit on a date to be announced soon”.

Soludo Opens Solution Innovation District Take-Off Centre, To Empower More Youths

By Ejike Abana

Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has inaugurated Solution Innovation District, SID take off centre. 

Governor Soludo performed the function at the De-Destination housing the temporary site of the centre in Awka.

Governor Soludo revealed that when the new government House in Awka is completed, the SID will move to the current government house which spans about seven hectares of land.

While congratulating the twenty thousand Anambra youths who completed the "Level Up Anambra" training, Governor Soludo pointed out that judging from the ongoing disruptive but necessary and inevitable changes in the country, there is the need for youths to look up to the opportunities replete in those disruptions.

Governor Soludo who thanked Microsoft and Wootlab foundation for the partnership, added that SID is in line with his agenda of technology everywhere and everything technology, stressing that multiple scalable skills are needed to succeed in the future.

The Governor pointed out that his government is  desirous of equipping the youths of Anambra and the children in particular, saying that the time demands government at all levels to double their efforts at providing infrastructure that will energize the private sector.

He reeled out some efforts of his government to leave nobody behind, assuring that the money entrusted to their administration to deliver value will be accounted for.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Miss Chinwe Okoli appreciated the Governor for his commitment to the project from ideation to actualization. 

Miss Okoli said that the location is merely a take-off centre to ideate, create and build amazing solutions to problems, that businesses in Anambra can leverage, asking Anambra youths to continue to follow their pages and platforms to know when to connect for each of the programmes they will reel out.

Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Patrick Agha Mba noted that the project is to amplify the efforts of the government for the youth as human capital development is pivotal to the Governor's vision to create quality jobs.

The Commissioner for Industry, Mr. Christian Udechukwu assured of mobilizing industry leaders to be part of SID working with the Governor's mandate to the ministry.

Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, Head of Service, Barrister Theodora Igwegbe, members of Anambra State Executive Council, Transition Committee Chairmen, among others, attended the event which featured formal commissioning of the District and presentation of laptops to twenty beneficiaries of the "level up Anambra" training.