BEYOND THE PRIMARY: THE IMPERATIVE OF UNITY IN DUNUKOFIA, NJIKOKA, ANAOCHA FEDERAL CONSTITUENCY

By Ejike Abana

The internal democratic processes of political parties are often designed to test the resilience, structural integrity, and long-term vision of a political family. Following the successful conclusion of the All Grands Alliance Party (APGA) primary elections for the Dunukofia, Njikoka, and Anaocha (DNA) Federal Constituency, the dust has settled, and a clear path forward has emerged. The emergence of Barrister Chukwuma Oli as the party’s official flagbearer is not just a milestone for his immediate support base, but a defining inflection point for the party across the three component local government areas.

However, as veteran political strategists understand, winning a primary is merely the prologue to a much larger story. The ultimate objective remains the 2027 General Election. For APGA to secure a decisive mandate in the DNA Federal Constituency, the immediate next step is clear, urgent, and non-negotiable: the party must unite, close ranks, and galvanize its collective strength.

The Significance of the DNA Constituency

The Dunukofia, Njikoka, Anaocha Federal Constituency sits at the strategic heart of Anambra Central. It is a constituency defined by an enlightened electorate, a robust entrepreneurial class, and deeply rooted community development models. Securing leadership here requires more than just partisan loyalty; it demands an inclusive blueprint that speaks directly to urban modernization, human capital development, and grassroots empowerment.

Barr. Chukwuma Oli’s emergence brings a fresh perspective to the table—combining legal intellect with a structural understanding of subnational governance and community needs. Yet, the true weight of a flagbearer is magnified only when backed by a completely seamless, indivisible party structure.

From Contestation to Consolidation

In the wake of any competitive primary, internal friction is natural. Diverse interests, passionate support groups, and varied visions for leadership inevitably compete for space. But the mark of a mature political organization lies in its ability to transition swiftly from the friction of contestation to the focus of consolidation.

The immediate task ahead for Barr. Oli, party leaders, and stakeholders across Dunukofia, Njikoka, and Anaocha is to initiate an aggressive, genuine reconciliation and integration process. Every aspirant who stood for the primary, along with their structures, must not only be reached out to but actively integrated into the core engine of the upcoming campaign.

"True political victory is never a solitary achievement. It is an exercise in expanding the circle, breaking down walls of division, and building a big tent where every stakeholder sees their aspiration reflected in the collective goal."

Aligning with the Broader Vision

The battle for the DNA Federal Constituency does not exist in a vacuum. It is intrinsically tied to the overarching governance narrative in Anambra State—a narrative built around technology-driven governance, massive public infrastructure developments, and the innovative Public-Private-Community-Partnership (PPCP) models that are currently reshaping the state.

For APGA to maintain its progressive momentum ahead of 2027, federal lawmakers from the state must be individuals capable of translating grassroots needs into effective federal advocacy, while seamlessly aligning with the state's transformation agenda. Barr. Oli’s campaign must now become a vehicle that carries this broader message of sustainable development to every ward, village, and homestead in the constituency.

The Road to 2027: A Call to Action

The 2027 General Election may seem distant on the calendar, but in the realm of political strategy, tomorrow is already here. The opposition will not be sleeping, and the electorate will be looking for organization, clarity, and unity of purpose.

The APGA leadership within the DNA constituency must now establish a synchronized vanguard. This means:

Unifying Support Structures: Merging individual campaign groups into a singular, formidable party machine.

Re-engaging the Grassroots: Continuous sensitization and registration drives to solidify the party's base.

 Articulating a Clear Manifesto: Translating legislative goals into concrete expectations for the people of Dunukofia, Njikoka, and Anaocha.

The primary is over, and the choice has been made. The challenge now shifts from proving who is the best candidate within the party to proving why APGA remains the best vehicle for the collective progress of the DNA constituency. It is time to drop the internal banners of the primary and lift the single, undivided banner of the party. Together, united and focused, the journey to a resounding victory in 2027 has officially begun.

Ejike Abana writes from Nri, Anaocha

GOVERNOR SOLUDO MARKS 2026 NATIONAL CHILDREN'S DAY WITH ANAMBRA CHILDREN

By Christian ABURIME

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, today joined thousands of children, parents, and stakeholders at the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka to commemorate the 2026 National Children’s Day Celebration.

The event, themed "Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child," served as a powerful call to action for the protection, education, and holistic development of the younger generation.

Representing His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Soludo delivered the presidential address to the nation's children. Standing before the assembly on behalf of the President, Governor Soludo emphasized that the strength of Nigeria’s future relies entirely on the deliberate choices made for its children today.

"Inclusion must be the moral foundation of national development," Governor Soludo stated while channeling the President's national vision. "Every single Nigerian child deserves the dignity of belonging, regardless of their background, gender, or physical ability."

Speaking on the federal framework, the Governor conveyed President Tinubu’s assurance that the current administration is actively listening more attentively to the voices, opinions, and aspirations of children. He re-emphasized a national commitment to building an inclusive governance structure that accounts for the inputs of children, ultimately shaping their lives and steering the destiny of the country toward sustainable growth.

Governor Soludo further noted from the presidential speech that social development must remain at the very center of national advancement. However, he maintained that government action alone is insufficient, reminding the public that a child's development cannot be separated from the stability, morals, and safety of the home.

Governor Soludo enthusiastically celebrated Anambra's children, declaring that the narrative of tomorrow must be rewritten because "the future is now."

He reiterated his administration's "Solution" mandate, which ensures that no child in Anambra State is marginalized or left behind. The Governor highlighted the state’s massive strides in providing quality, accessible education and structured social safety nets designed to give vulnerable children and children living with disabilities an equal playing field.

Earlier in the ceremony, the Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs. Esther Chinyere Onyekesi, delivered a comprehensive welcome address.

Mrs Onyekesi extended a warm welcome to the global and local community on behalf of the visionary leadership of Governor Soludo. She took the opportunity to highly commend Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the Wife of the Governor, for her relentless contributions through the Ministry and the Nonye Soludo Healthy Living Initiative, which has drastically improved the welfare, nutrition, and well-being of children across the state.

Reaffirming the timely nature of the 2026 theme, the Commissioner outlined the ministry's strict stance against societal ills, stamping out child abuse, child trafficking, child labor, and street hawking by minors, inter-Agency Collaboration, among others.

Turning her attention to the parade ground, Mrs. Onyekesi addressed the children directly:

"Today is your day. You are intelligent, creative, resilient, and full of promise. Do not allow negative influences to distract you from your dreams. Anambra State is counting on you to become our future leaders, innovators, and responsible citizens."

The historic celebration at the Alex Ekwueme Square featured a colorful march-past by various schools across the state, and specialized presentations by children’s groups.

The event was attended by Wife of the Governor, Dr.(Mrs) Nonye Soludo, Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim and wife, State Executive Council members, among others.*GOVERNOR SOLUDO MARKS 2026 NATIONAL CHILDREN'S DAY WITH ANAMBRA CHILDREN*

By Christian ABURIME

The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, today joined thousands of children, parents, and stakeholders at the Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka to commemorate the 2026 National Children’s Day Celebration.

The event, themed "Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child," served as a powerful call to action for the protection, education, and holistic development of the younger generation.

Representing His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Governor Soludo delivered the presidential address to the nation's children. Standing before the assembly on behalf of the President, Governor Soludo emphasized that the strength of Nigeria’s future relies entirely on the deliberate choices made for its children today.

"Inclusion must be the moral foundation of national development," Governor Soludo stated while channeling the President's national vision. "Every single Nigerian child deserves the dignity of belonging, regardless of their background, gender, or physical ability."

Speaking on the federal framework, the Governor conveyed President Tinubu’s assurance that the current administration is actively listening more attentively to the voices, opinions, and aspirations of children. He re-emphasized a national commitment to building an inclusive governance structure that accounts for the inputs of children, ultimately shaping their lives and steering the destiny of the country toward sustainable growth.

Governor Soludo further noted from the presidential speech that social development must remain at the very center of national advancement. However, he maintained that government action alone is insufficient, reminding the public that a child's development cannot be separated from the stability, morals, and safety of the home.

Governor Soludo enthusiastically celebrated Anambra's children, declaring that the narrative of tomorrow must be rewritten because "the future is now."

He reiterated his administration's "Solution" mandate, which ensures that no child in Anambra State is marginalized or left behind. The Governor highlighted the state’s massive strides in providing quality, accessible education and structured social safety nets designed to give vulnerable children and children living with disabilities an equal playing field.

Earlier in the ceremony, the Anambra State Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs. Esther Chinyere Onyekesi, delivered a comprehensive welcome address.

Mrs Onyekesi extended a warm welcome to the global and local community on behalf of the visionary leadership of Governor Soludo. She took the opportunity to highly commend Mrs. Nonye Soludo, the Wife of the Governor, for her relentless contributions through the Ministry and the Nonye Soludo Healthy Living Initiative, which has drastically improved the welfare, nutrition, and well-being of children across the state.

Reaffirming the timely nature of the 2026 theme, the Commissioner outlined the ministry's strict stance against societal ills, stamping out child abuse, child trafficking, child labor, and street hawking by minors, inter-Agency Collaboration, among others.

Turning her attention to the parade ground, Mrs. Onyekesi addressed the children directly:

"Today is your day. You are intelligent, creative, resilient, and full of promise. Do not allow negative influences to distract you from your dreams. Anambra State is counting on you to become our future leaders, innovators, and responsible citizens."

The historic celebration at the Alex Ekwueme Square featured a colorful march-past by various schools across the state, and specialized presentations by children’s groups.

The event was attended by Wife of the Governor, Dr.(Mrs) Nonye Soludo, Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim and wife, State Executive Council members, among others.

THE TALE OF A LEGAL TITAN AND COMMUNITY CHAMPION: THE INSPIRING ODYSSEY OF CHIEF BARR. PRINCE CHUKWUDI OLI (ỌBA EZEAFIA ANAOCHA)

By Evaristus Onyibor

In the complex tapestry of Nigerian public life, it is rare to find individuals who seamlessly blend intellectual sophistication with a deep, visceral commitment to their roots. Very often, professional success distances the elite from the realities of their communities.

However, every generation produces a few exceptional figures who break this mold—individuals whose lives prove that true greatness is not measured merely by the heights one reaches, but by how many others they lift along the way.

Enter Chief Barr. Prince Chukwudi Oli, popularly and traditionally revered as *Ọba Ezeafia Anaocha*.

A legal heavyweight, seasoned strategist, and relentless philanthropist, Prince Oli has emerged as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformation. As the nation looks toward the future, his name has increasingly become synonymous with visionary leadership, grassroots development, and an unyielding commitment to justice.

*A Foundation of Heritage and Academic Excellence*

Prince Chukwudi Oli’s story begins in the historic and culturally sacred ancient kingdom of Nri—specifically in Uruoji village, within the Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State. Born into the respected Oli family, his upbringing was steeped in the values of integrity, community responsibility, and the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo nation.

Recognizing early on that education is the ultimate lever for societal advancement, he pursued a career in law. He proceeded to the prestigious University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC), an institution renowned for producing some of Africa’s finest legal minds. Upon obtaining his law degree, he crossed the final hurdle of professional training and was formally called to the Nigerian Bar in 2005.

*Ascendancy in the Temple of Justice*

The Nigerian legal landscape is notoriously competitive, yet Prince Oli’s ascent was nothing short of meteoric. He sharpened his legal teeth within two of the country’s most formidable and elite legal institutions: the chambers of the legendary Nwankwo Ikwueto, SAN, and the powerhouse J.K. Gadzama LLP.

It was during his tenure at J.K. Gadzama LLP that his brilliant legal acumen, fierce work ethic, and natural leadership came to the fore. In a milestone achievement that still resonates within the legal community, he rose to become the youngest ever Head of Litigation at the firm. Managing high-stakes, complex litigations at such a young age spoke volumes about his intellect and earned him the lifelong mentorship of the legal icon, Chief Joe Kyari Gadzama, SAN.

Today, Prince Oli sits as the Principal Partner at *Oli and Partners*, a top-tier law firm that has redefined excellence, professionalism, and ethical advocacy in the Nigerian legal system.

Beyond private practice, his expertise has been sought at the highest levels of national politics. He was a critical asset and key member of the legal team that represented the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) during the high-stakes 2007 and 2011 presidential election petitions—a testament to his mastery of constitutional and electoral jurisprudence.

In 2013, in strict recognition of his distinguished service, impeccable character, and contributions to the bar, the Supreme Court of Nigeria appointed him a Notary Public. As an active member of both the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the International Bar Association (IBA), Prince Oli remains firmly entrenched in global legal discourse and institutional reform.

*Redefining Philanthropy: The Home-Grown Modernizer*

While his professional achievements place him in the elite corridors of Abuja and Lagos, Prince Oli’s heart has never left Anaocha. His philosophy of community development is practical: he believes that governance and development must be brought directly to the people.

Where others wait for the government, *Ọba Ezeafia Anaocha* steps in.

In December 2023, he single-handedly funded and undertook the construction of a major inland road in Nri, transforming the socio-economic life of the community. This landmark project was commissioned by none other than his revered mentor and billionaire philanthropist, Chief Engr. Prince Arthur Eze (*Ozoigbondu, Ezeigbo gburu gburu*). This infrastructure drive was not an isolated incident; Prince Oli extended the same civic-minded benevolence to his residential area in Enugu, constructing critical road infrastructure to improve the lives of inhabitants.

"True leadership is about creating immediate, tangible relief for the people while building infrastructures that outlive us." — This sentiment echoes through Prince Oli's extensive humanitarian footprint.

His interventions span several critical sectors:

 *Housing for the Vulnerable:* He has built modern, decent houses for the less privileged, restoring dignity to families who had lost all hope.

 *Social Safety Nets:* In a unique display of structured welfare, he pays monthly salaries to the elderly in his community, ensuring they live out their golden years with financial security.

 *Educational Empowerment:* Across Abuja, Enugu, and Anambra, he runs sustained youth empowerment schemes and robust scholarship programs for brilliant but indigent students.

 *Sports Development:* He is currently financing the construction of a state-of-the-art sports stadium in Nri. Upon completion, it is poised to be one of the best community-engineered sports facilities in Nigeria, designed to discover and nurture the next generation of athletic talent.

A Custodian of Culture and Joy

For all his modern exposure, Prince Oli remains a passionate custodian of Igbo culture. He understands that a people detached from their culture lose their identity.

During the historic *Onwa Agwu* traditional masquerade festival in Nri, he brought unprecedented color and joy to the community. In a bid to encourage cultural preservation and support local youth, he financially rewarded every single participating masquerade group, with the top three winners walking away with massive cash prizes and grand gifts.

His generosity has become a staple of festive seasons, where he routinely surprises his hometown with extensive food items, cash gifts, and support systems that ensure no household is left behind.

*The Vision for 2027: A Call to Higher Service*

It is this impeccable track record of professional excellence, infrastructural development, and deep-seated empathy that has triggered a massive, grassroots-led movement calling him to higher public service.

Currently, Chief Barr. Prince Chukwudi Oli is the frontline aspirant for the **Dunukofia/Njikoka/Anaocha Federal Constituency** seat in the Federal House of Representatives for 2027.

His candidacy is not born out of mere political ambition, but out of a desire to scale up his proven template of private philanthropy into sustainable, legislative-driven development. Backed by the wisdom of his two most influential mentors—Chief J.K. Gadzama, SAN, and Chief Prince Engr. Arthur Eze—Oli represents a bridge between the old and the new; between corporate excellence and grassroots empathy.

As the political landscape of Anambra State shapes up for the future, the people of Dunukofia, Njikoka, and Anaocha are looking toward a man who has already delivered the dividends of democracy as a private citizen. In Chief Barr. Prince Chukwudi Oli (*Ọba Ezeafia Anaocha*), they see a legal titan ready to defend their rights, an infrastructural builder ready to attract development, and a son of the soil who will never forget home.