21/07/2023
*BRING YOUR INVESTMENTS HOME TO DEVELOP ANAMBRA, IT IS IN YOUR BEST INTEREST, SOLUDO AGAIN TELLS NDI-ANAMBRA*
By Christian ABURIME
Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Governor of Anambra State has again reiterated his calls to Ndi Anambra living outside the State to bring their investments home to help develop Anambra State
Governor Soludo made the clarion call during a town hall meeting with Ndi Anambra businessmen and women resident at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
It will be recalled he made similar calls to Ndi Anambra resident in Lagos few weeks ago. He specifically enjoined the business owners and investors of Anambra extraction to imbibe the homeland consciousness by repatriating home their investments to begin the foundational process of developing the State
He again emphasized that God did not make mistakes by making them Anambra citizens. He called for their strategic partnership by seeking their cooperation to work together to develop the State
"Let's work together as strategic partners to develop Anambra. We have only one agenda which is to make the state a destination and not a departure lounge"
Governor Soludo thereafter reeled out some of the activities and infrastructure his administration is putting in place to make the State investor's friendly.
On security which remains a top priority of his government, Governor Soludo reassured that the security architecture has been strengthened with committed and dedicated state's community Vigilante Group working effectively with the other security forces. With a more strengthened security, he reassured the weekly sit-at-home syndrome will come to an end
On road infrastructure, he reassured that over 300 kilometers of road across the entire state are currently at various stages of completion while additional ones will be flagged off soon.
He revealed Awka the State Capital is being modernised adding that a new government house and lodge will be ready in the latter part of first quarter next year.
He further told the audience that his government has embarked on regenerative agriculture to boost production. He added that the recently distributed Coconut and palm oil seedling to about 140,000 households across the State will drastically reduce poverty when it starts fruiting in few years to come with every household expected to generate a princely sum of N1.2 million annually as income
On environment, Governor Soludo said it remains an existential threat with the devastating effects of flooding and erosion. He mentioned areas like Oko, Nanka, Ekwulobia, Oba etc as heavily proned zones. He however assured that the government is re-channeling and desilting the waterways while a draft bill to further combat the menace will be forwarded to the State Assembly
Speaking about the commercial city of Onitsha, the Governor regretted that the city was now more or less a shadow of itself. He reassured that his government has embarked on a rescue mission to bring it back to its former glory by rebuilding infrastructure and desilting the waterways.
He mentioned that environmental laws to compel landlords to paint their buildings once in awhile will come into effect soon. While Ochanja Roundabout will wear a new look with waterfalls fountain, and the famous creek road dualized with street lights
On acquisition of land, Governor Soludo assured that every prospective investor will get land expeditiously. On power, he restated that the State government is working with the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, EEDC, for 24 hours electricity at least for the four major towns of Awka, Onitsha, Nnewi and Ekwulobia. He also appealed to every ndi Anambra to pay part of their taxes to the State Government to help develop the State.
On the future of the South East, the Governor expressed great optimism that the future is bright with the current leaders who have demonstrated the desire to work together for the growth of the region
Earlier, the Chairman of the occasion, Sir Emeka Offor had commended the Governor for his giant strides in infrastructural development in Anambra State. He emphasized that developing Anambra State requires the cooperation of every Ndi-Anambra irrespective of party affiliation. He therefore called on all the politicians in the state including investors to support the government and invest in the homeland
The Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, who came in at the middle of the event said Alaigbo cannot develop without Anambra.
"We are one and the same people. We need to fix the whole of South East. My coming here is to support what Governor Soludo is doing. We must do everything possible to bring back our investment home." He told the audience
He thereafter called on every Ndi-Anambra to support Governor Soludo, saying he has done very well in the little over one year he has been in office
Others who spoke at the occasion such as former Governor Dr Chris Ngige, Senators Victor Umeh, Ifeanyi Ubah, Uche Ekwunife all commended Governor Soludo for the great work he is doing in Anambra State
The occasion was also graced by the wife of the Governor, Mrs Nonye Soludo with prominent Anambra-born Captains of Industry as well as members of Anambra State Executive Council among others
19/07/2023
*Agric Renaissance: How Soludo is replicating the Coconut and Palm oil revolution in Anambra State*
By Christian ABURIME
In a splendid era in Nigeria’s former Eastern region, where the lush green forests stretched far and wide, a revolution was ignited - a green revolution of growth, prosperity and transformation.
At the helm of this transformative movement stood the eminent leader, Dr. M.I. Okpara, whose vivid vision, resolute spirit and unwavering determination changed the agricultural landscape of the region for good.
Long before crude oil came to national dominance, palm oil and allied products constituted the lifeline of Nigeria’s economy. Dr. Okpara, serving as the premier of the former Eastern region, recognized the immense potential of the oil palm tree, a gift from nature that held the key to economic liberation.
With the gleam of hope in his eyes, he envisioned a future where the once-neglected palm groves blossomed into a vibrant source of wealth, empowering communities and shaping a better tomorrow.
As a dynamic leader, the late former premier rallied the masses, inspiring farmer and entrepreneurs alike to take up the mantle of the agricultural renaissance.
So, vast plantations of oil palm trees flourished as a testament to the triumph of perseverance and the boundless potential of Eastern Nigeria’s natural resources. The golden fruits of the palms were harvested and transformed into a myriad of products - oil for culinary delight, palm kernel for industrial applications, and the mighty palm wine that flowed through celebrations, true nectar of communal unity.
Today, Dr. Okpara’s historic legacy is reverberating back across generations to inspire new leaders to embrace the power of agriculture as a tool of economic transformation.
And thus, Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has since caught the inspiration, seeking to recreate the Okpara magic of the past with contemporary passion in Anambra State.
Governor Soludo, a visionary in his own right, has embarked on an agricultural renaissance through his Anambra Oil and Coconut Palm Initiative. The governor has since inception been planting palm trees and distributing quality palm seedlings to Anambra farmers.
This year, under the Palm Agenda, a minimum of 100,000 households are expected to benefit from the initiative, with each family receiving between 5 and 10 improved palm seedlings from the state government.
The oil palm initiative, being part of Governor Soludo’s economic vision of transforming Anambra into a prosperous state, is shaping an inspired journey towards an agricultural renaissance or what could probably be dubbed regenerative agriculture.
The palm seedlings being planted today will in three or four years start fruiting, the agro-allied industries that will process the palm produce will begin to emerge, and Anambra will become a net exporter of palm and coconut produce, earning princely revenue every year.
No doubt, this is a wake-up call for Ndi Anambra to embrace and support the spirit of resurgent agriculture by taking full advantage of Governor Soludo’s germinating oil and coconut palm revolution, which is a veritable emulation of the iconic Dr. M.I. Okpara’s unforgettable legacy.
Let our farmers nurture the palm seeds of transformation and watch as they bloom into flourishing plantations, plantations where the palms sway and yield, whispering tales of prosperity and promise in a few years to come. Indeed, Solution is here!
19/07/2023
*SOLUDO CONGRATULATES OZONKPU VICTOR OYE ON HIS 67TH BIRTHDAY*
Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR has congratulated the immediate former National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, on his sixty seventh birthday celebration.
Governor Soludo said Oye's sterling leadership qualities as the former APGA National Chairman contributed tremendously in stabilising the party
The Governor said Ozonkpu Oye has proven to be one committed Nigerian, who continues to work tirelessly as a true Progressive in moving the country forward.
The Governor, therefore, join millions of Nigerians, especially members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), in congratulating and celebrating the indefatigable former National Chairman on his 67th birthday, wishing him good health, long life and more prosperous years ahead
Signed:
*Christian Aburime*
Press Secretary To The Governor
July 17, 2023.
11/07/2023
PRESS STATEMENT:
APGA NATIONAL CHAIRMAN MOURNS JOE IRUKWU, FORMER PRESIDENT GENERAL OF OHANEZE.
The National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa has expressed deep sadness over the death of Prof. Joe Irukwu, former President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo.
According to Barr. Ezeokenwa, "Professor Irukwu held the distinction as Africa's inaugural insurance professor, dedicatedly nurturing insurance as an academic discipline within Nigeria by authoring numerous textbooks in the field. His profound legal expertise, particularly in insurance law, further propelled his ascent to the esteemed position of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)".
The National Chairman described Irukwu as, "an exemplar of unwavering fortitude, an unyielding advocate for the Igbo people, and an esteemed statesman whose presence was marked by an aura of extraordinary wisdom and intellectual acuity."
"As the helmsman and President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Prof Irukwu valiantly assumed the mantle of a resolute advocate, articulating and amplifying the just quests of his people, tirelessly championing their rights, and fearlessly confronting adroitly orchestrated manifestations of injustice on the domestic and global stage. His resonant voice, marked by eloquence and unwavering conviction, served as an ardent rallying cry, catapulting their concerns to the forefront of national discourse while ceaselessly striving for their equitable enfranchisement and holistic advancement."
"Beyond the hallowed precincts of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Prof Irukwu's profound influence reverberated within the contours of academia, where his incisive intellect and pedagogical acumen enriched the tapestry of scholarly discourses, rousing and engendering enlightenment within the hearts and minds of aspiring intellects."
Barr. Ezeokenwa earnestly prays for the Divine Providence to grant the bereaved family of Prof. Irukwu, as well as his cherished comrades and the entire Igbo community who are united in the face of an immense void, the strength and fortitude to endure the deep sorrow that accompanies this irreplaceable loss. In his heartfelt supplication, the National Chairman humbly implores that they discover solace amidst their grief and are bestowed with the resilience to persevere through this challenging period.
Signed:
Dr. Tony Olisa Mbeki,
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, to the National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
Tuesday, 11th July, 2023.
10/06/2023
Just in:
*CONDOLENCE VISIT.*
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Hon. Sly Ezeokenwa Esq today being Friday 9th June 2023 pays a condolence visit to the family of High Chief Raymond Dokpesi and the Management of DAAR Communications.
Mr. Ezeokenwa who was accompanied by the National Legal Adviser, Victor Agunzi Esq, the National Women Leader, Barr. Lizzy and some members of the APGA National Working Committee, consoled the family and Staff of DAAR Communications, owners of AIT and Ray Power FM, praying God to grant the Soul of the deceased eternal rest in paradise.
*APGA New Media.*
08/06/2023
Please ignore the mischievous antics and the biased Report that the Court of Appeal threw out Dr Victor Oye's interlocutory appeal against the Ruling of the FCT High Court Bwari delivered on 10th May, 2023 against the earlier restraining Orders of Justice Madugu. The fact remains that when the appeal came up for hearing today, parties informed the Court of Appeal that the trial Court has delivered final Judgment in the case on Tuesday 6th June, 2023 thus rendering the Appeal academic.
As is conventional practice, the Court of Appeal asked Dr Victor Ike Oye's legal team to withdraw the appeal and file one composite appeal against both the interim orders and the final Judgment. The above position of the Court of Appeal is in line with routine Practice and Procedure in appellate Courts and thus not unusual. Thus, the appeal was struck out upon the application or express request by the Appellant to enable Dr Victor Oye's legal team bring one appeal against the perverse judgment of Justice Madugu.
With the Ruling of the Court of Appeal today, the Court is now set to hear Dr Victor Oye's appeal against the judgment from Bwari FCT High Court made in violation of the earlier judgment of the Court of Appeal.
*Victor Agunzi Esq*
_National Legal Adviser, APGA_
08/06/2023
*ONE OF THE KEY PRONOUNCEMENT IN THE JUDGMENT OF HON. JUSTICE J.K OMOTOSHO OF THE FEDERAL HIGH COURT ABUJA AFFIRMED BY THE COURT OF APPEAL ON 2nd JUNE, 2023 ON THE IMMEDIATE PAST LEADERSHIP OF APGA.*
If you are still in doubt over the Court judgments on the leadership of APGA, then this brief write up is for you.
Hon. Justice J. K Omotosho of the Federal High Court Abuja in his judgment delivered on 28/3/2023 held as follows:
"The judgments of the Appellate Courts on the issue of Chairmanship of APGA still subsists and there is no evidence that they have been set aside. Consequently, the Chief Victor Oye led NWC is the authentic committee recognized by law. This same committee is the one authorized to nominate and forward the names of candidates to the 1st Defendant [INEC]. The Plaintiffs not being nominated or having their names forwarded by the Chief Victor Oye led committee cannot be deemed valid candidates of the party for the various elective positions they seek. Chief Edozie Njoku is not recognised as the Chairman of APGA and so lacks the powers to forward the names of nominated candidates. The 1st Defendant [INEC] was therefore right to refuse the Plaintiffs access to upload the names of its candidates having not been recognised by law.
As it stands, the Plaintiffs have no locus standi to bring this suit as they clearly did not participate in the primaries conducted by the Chief Victor Oye led committee.”
See Pages 37 - 38 of the FHC Judgment of Omotosho J. delivered on March 28, 2023.
The above quoted pronouncement by Hon Justice J.K Omotosho was affirmed by the Court of Appeal Abuja division on the 2nd of June,2023 putting into consideration the judgment of the Supreme Court delivered on 14/10/2021 and the ruling on the correction of the incidental slip at page 13 of the Supreme Court judgment.
This judgment of the Court of Appeal delivered on 2nd June, 2023 which pronounced Dr Victor Ike Oye as the authentic and recognized National Chairman of APGA is superior to whatever Judgment that emanated from Hon. Justice M.A Madugu of the FCT High Court.
Dr Victor Ike Oye who by the judgment of a superior court is recognized as the authentic National Chairman of APGA as since completed his 8- years tenure and a new National Chairman of APGA as emerged in the person of Barr Sly Ezeokenwa along side members of his National Working Committee.
A new chapter of leadership of APGA has since been opened.
I think it is time to put an end to every distraction from Edozie Njoku and his co travellers and concentrate on building a stronger APGA.
*Victor Agunzi Esq*
_National Legal Adviser, APGA._
24/11/2022
Soludo and Obi Meet.
Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo CFR and former governor Peter Obi met at St. Patrick’s Cathedral Awka during the Thanksgiving mass for Most Rev. Paulinus C. Ezeokafor in celebration of his 70th birthday.
Just before the mass started, Governor Soludo stepped out from his pew and walked over to where the former governor was seated to greet him, welcoming him to the Capital city.
Even amid so many political disagreements, they both understand they are Ndi-Anambra.
Yes! We are Ndi-Anambra.
We lead, and others follow!
Anambra politics is quite different, congratulations to anambra people.
30/05/2022
APGA GOVERNORSHIP RESULTS
ABIA STATE
Prof. Greg Ibe, Chancellor, Gregory University, Uturu won the APGA governorship primary in Abia State with a total of 283 votes, followed by Uwa Etigwe, SAN with 148 votes. Chief Chikwe Udensi came last with 14 votes.
ENUGU STATE
In Enugu state a former Minister of Information, Frank Nweke Jnr emerged winner with 273 votes as against his closest rival Jeff Emeka Nnamani - a former executive director in Total Energies - who polled 267 votes.
EBONYI STATE
Prof. Sebastian Odoh - a former SSG to the Ebonyi State Government was affirmed as governorship candidate for Ebonyi State.