The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine

Tag: Anambra guber

  • LP’s Moghalu Calls For Electoral Reforms at CPO Summit

    LP’s Moghalu Calls For Electoral Reforms at CPO Summit

    The Labour Party Governorship Candidate in the November 8 Anambra election, Dr. George Moghalu, on Thursday, September 11, 2025, joined political leaders, intellectuals, and democracy advocates at the Third Annual Summit and Book Launch of the Coalition for Peter Obi (CPO) held at Denis Hotel, Abuja.

    The event, hosted by Hon. Ikenna Mbanefo, National Coordinator of the Coalition for Peter Obi, drew a cross-section of stakeholders under the theme: “Electoral Reforms: Panacea for Nigeria’s Political and Economic Development,” with HE Mr. Peter Obi, former Labour Party Presidential Candidate, as Special Guest.

    Dr. Moghalu, who served as the Chief Book Presenter, commended the coalition and the author for addressing such a critical issue at a defining moment in Nigeria’s democracy. He described the initiative as visionary and timely, noting that electoral reforms remain the backbone of sustainable democratic governance.

    In his remarks during the unveiling, he said: “For me, this is an opportunity to encourage and support the author, and by extension, to support the movement entirely. The movement is built around a role model, someone who has led the way, and what we are doing is simply to follow so that Nigeria becomes a better place for everyone.

    “The focus of the author on getting the electoral process right is quite commendable. I have said it in many fora that the worst form of corruption is electoral corruption, because once the electoral process is compromised, everything else that follows must equally be corrupted. You cannot get a goat and expect a cow as the offspring — there is no magic about it.”

    The summit featured robust discussions, goodwill messages, and contributions from reform-minded Nigerians.

    Among the dignitaries in attendance was Dr. Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, who praised the coalition for sustaining the push for credible elections and accountable leadership.

  • [WATCH] Anambra 2025: LP’s Moghalu Visits ADC’s Nwosu

    [WATCH] Anambra 2025: LP’s Moghalu Visits ADC’s Nwosu

    The Labour Party (LP) Governorship candidate, Dr. George Moghalu (Ohamadike Nnewi), yesterday paid a fraternal visit to his kinsman, Chief John Nwosu, the Governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), at his residence in Nnewi.

    The visit, described by his Special Assistant on Media, Johnson Okoye, as warm and cordial, went beyond partisan boundaries as both leaders, proud sons of Nnewi, reaffirmed their enduring bond of brotherhood and mutual respect. Their discussions focused on the unity, peace, and progress of Anambra State.

    Speaking after the visit, Dr. Moghalu underscored that leadership must always be anchored on service to the people and the pursuit of the common good. He noted that while political parties may differ, what unites Ndi Anambra and particularly the Nnewi spirit of solidarity is far greater than what divides them.

    “Chief John Nwosu is not just a fellow Governorship candidate, he is my brother and my kinsman. Our conversation was about how to build a better Anambra where peace, prosperity and development will thrive. As proud sons of Nnewi, we share a duty to show that politics should strengthen our unity, not divide us. Maka na Anambra ga adị mma ozo,” Moghalu declared.

  • [VIEWPOINT] Moghalu’s Vision Sails on as Onitsha River Port Welcomes First Barge of 2025

    [VIEWPOINT] Moghalu’s Vision Sails on as Onitsha River Port Welcomes First Barge of 2025

    By Johnson Okoye, ACA

    The Onitsha River Port, long seen as the sleeping giant of Nigeria’s South-East trade network, roared back to life this month as the first barge of 2025, MV ZUPITOR/MV RB ALASKA, berthed to cheers and renewed hope. This milestone carries the clear imprint of a man whose foresight turned rusting infrastructure into a thriving trade hub, Dr. George Moghalu.

    As Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) from 2019 to 2023, Moghalu’s leadership transformed the long-idle port into a beacon of economic opportunity. His bold concessioning reforms and infrastructure revival efforts ensured that Onitsha Port would not just reopen but operate as a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to congested and costly road transport.

    For decades, the port was a symbol of wasted potential. Today, it is a gateway to prosperity, cutting transport costs, easing road congestion, creating jobs, and giving South-East traders a competitive edge. The arrival of MV ZUPITOR/MV RB ALASKA is not just a shipment; it is a symbol of Moghalu’s enduring legacy. Though his tenure at NIWA ended in 2023, every vessel that docks in Onitsha stands as living proof that when leadership is anchored in vision and executed with resolve, progress becomes unstoppable.

    Now, as Dr. George Moghalu seeks the mandate to serve as Governor of Anambra State, Ndi Anambra have every reason to expect the same foresight, discipline, and results-driven leadership he demonstrated at NIWA. He has shown capacity, not in promises, but in tangible achievements that speak for themselves.

    From restoring a long-dead port to driving nationwide inland waterways reforms, Moghalu has proven he can turn dormant potential into thriving reality. As governor, he promises to replicate that same model of action, reviving key industries, unlocking economic opportunities, delivering people-oriented infrastructure, and ensuring that Anambra’s resources work for the people, not against them.

    Central to his agenda is security. Moghalu understands that no meaningful development can happen in an atmosphere of fear. He has pledged to overhaul all security outfits in Anambra, adopting a modern, technology-driven, community-focused security architecture that will restore peace in every town and village. With a secured environment, investors, local and foreign, will have the confidence to bring their businesses, industries, and opportunities to Anambra, creating jobs and driving prosperity across the state.

    The South-East does not just have a port again, it has a proven leader ready to steer Anambra into a future of sustainable growth, safety, and prosperity. With Dr. George Moghalu at the helm, Ndi Anambra can be confident that the tide of progress will keep rising and no force will be able to hold it back.

    With George Moghalu, Anambra Ga Adị Mma Ozo. This is the man whose bold vision revived the Onitsha River Port, created jobs, cut transport costs, and proved that leadership is about results, not excuses. As Governor, he will overhaul security to restore peace, attract investors, and unlock prosperity in every corner of our state. Let us support the man with bold vision, not the one that talks too much without results.

  • Moghalu Hails Obidigbo, Orogbu on their Birthdays

    The Labour Party governorship candidate for the November 2025 Anambra election, Dr. George Moghalu, has extended warm felicitations to Dr. Chike Obidigbo, Chairman of the Omambala Union Assembly, on the occasion of his 77th birthday.

    Moghalu also congratulated Prof. Oby Lilian Orogbu, Honourable Member representing Awka North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, on the occasion of her birthday.

    In separate statements which were released by his Special Assistant on Media, Johnson Okoye, on Friday, Moghalu noted the impact of both celebrants in the society.

    Moghalu described Dr. Obidigbo as a distinguished industrialist and founder of Hardis and Dromedas Limited, whose business ingenuity has made an indelible impact on Nigeria’s economy. He also praised the celebrant’s philanthropic interventions through the Osisioma Foundation, noting that they have empowered countless individuals and households to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their dreams.

    Moghalu recalled their shared political history as fellow aspirants for the governorship of Anambra State, commending Dr. Obidigbo’s spirit of sportsmanship and unwavering commitment to the growth and progress of the state.

    On behalf of his campaign organisation, Moghalu prayed for God to continue to grant Dr. Obidigbo good health, sound mind and wisdom. He expressed hope that the celebrant’s legacy would continue to inspire future generations and stand as a lasting testament to his vision, leadership, and dedication to humanity.

    “Happy birthday, Osisioma Igbo,” Moghalu added.

    Moghalu Celebrates Prof. Lilian Orogbu 

    Celebrating Prof. Lilian Orogbu, the former NIWA DG, described her as a woman whose life embodies virtues.

    He lauded the Lawmaker’s support to his governorship ambition, while wishing her a fruitful service.

    The full statement reads:

    Today, I join family, friends, colleagues, and the good people of Anambra in celebrating an exceptional daughter of our state, Prof. Oby Lilian Orogbu, Honourable Member representing Awka North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, on the joyous occasion of her birthday.

    Prof. Orogbu is a woman whose life embodies integrity, brilliance, and an unshakable commitment to the progress of our society. From the lecture halls of academia to the hallowed chambers of the National Assembly, she has distinguished herself as a leader of purpose, vision, and service. Through her effective representation of the good people of Awka North and South Federal Constituency, she has continued to bring dignity, a strong voice, and tangible development to her constituents.

    Her gracious and impactful support for my candidacy reflects our shared ideals and our mutual commitment to building an Anambra where competence, compassion, and character lead the way.

    As she marks another milestone, I celebrate her remarkable achievements, her steadfast dedication to our people, and the inspiration she continues to provide to future generations.

    May the years ahead be filled with good health, renewed strength, and greater success in service to God and humanity.

    Happy Birthday, Ada Di Ebube!

    Warm regards,

    Dr. George Moghalu

    Labour Party Governorship Candidate

  • Anambra Guber: Coalition stakeholders adopt ADC’s John Nwosu as candidate

    Anambra Guber: Coalition stakeholders adopt ADC’s John Nwosu as candidate

    The national leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and leaders of some other political parties under the aegis of Anambra Coalition Stakeholders Forum convened its first strategic meeting in Awka with key stakeholders across the state in attendance.

    The meeting officially adopted the governorship candidate of ADC for the November 8 election, Mr.John Nwosu, as the coalition candidate for the election.

    Nwosu, said the historic gathering marked a significant milestone in the party’s renewed commitment to reposition Nigeria for meaningful governance and the delivery of true dividends of democracy to the citizenry.

    He said: “The coalition meeting was more than just a convergence of political minds; it was a strategic and deliberate response to the growing outcry for accountable leadership, inclusive development, and a governance model that genuinely reflects the will and welfare of the people.

    “At the heart of this new direction is the party’s vision to foster a people-centered democratic culture; one rooted in transparency, equity, economic empowerment, and social justice.

    “With the Anambra State gubernatorial election fast approaching, the ADC coalition is set to take a bold stand, leveraging the political opportunity as a litmus test for its ideological and practical commitment to ending bad governance.

    “Anambra, a state rich in human capital, entrepreneurial spirit, and cultural heritage, has for years yearned for leadership that prioritizes its people over personal or political interests.

    “The ADC-led coalition sees Anambra as the ideal launchpad for a broader national reawakening; a testing ground to prove that governance in Nigeria can be done differently, done better, and done for the people.

    “The coalition aims to disrupt the status quo, dismantle anti-people policies, and demonstrate that good governance is not just possible, but achievable when visionary leadership is combined with grassroots mobilization and coalition strength.

    According to him, the essence of the coalition meeting went beyond electoral strategy, adding that it was rooted in a shared belief that democracy must begin to work for the ordinary citizen, which entails revamping economic policies that had left the masses impoverished, challenging state actors who perpetuate corruption and impunity, and promoting inclusive governance that listens, learns, and leads with the people in mind.

    He said further: “Through the strategic coalition, the ADC is building a platform of unity, resilience, and national purpose, bringing together civil society groups, youth organizations, professional bodies, community leaders, and political allies who are committed to charting a new democratic course.

    “The coalition is a clarion call to Nigerians who believe in a better future and are ready to contribute to a transformational political movement.

    “As the political momentum builds towards the Anambra election, the ADC is positioning itself not just as a contender for office, but as a catalyst for a democratic rebirth.

    “The coalition’s activities will focus on grassroots engagement, policy articulation, and strategic alliance-building that can challenge entrenched interests and inspire a new wave of political participation across the state and the nation.” Vanguard

  • INEC, Police declares readiness for Nov 6 Anambra Election

    INEC, Police declares readiness for Nov 6 Anambra Election

    IN SPITE of security challenges, the Police and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, yesterday, declared their readiness for the November 6, 2021 Anambra State Governorship election, with the Inspector General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba saying that the Police will deploy 34,587 officers, special forces and three helicopters for the poll.

     

    The assurance from the electoral umpire and the police came as the Supreme Court cleared the coast for former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, to contest the election as the candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA.

     

    The apex court verdict threw supporters of APGA into celebration, across the country, yesterday.

     

     

    Police to deploy 34, 587 officers, special forces, 3 helicopters

     

    Towards ensuring a peaceful, free, and fair conduct of elections in Anambra State, IGP Usman Alkali Baba said 34, 587 police personnel, three helicopters, and Special Forces will be deployed to the state.

     

     

    Speaking at a meeting with Deputy Inspectors General of Police, Assistant Inspectors General of Police and Command Commissioners of Police in Abuja, he noted that based on an Election Security Threat Analysis conducted by the Force Intelligence Bureau, Force headquarters has developed a “Strategic Election Security Operation Order which will involve the mobilization and deployment of a total of 34,587 police personnel.”

     

    He continued: “This will comprise of conventional police officers, Police Mobile Force (PMF), Counter Terrorism Unit (CTU), Special Forces personnel, Explosives Ordinance Unit (EOD), Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB), INTERPOL, Special Protection Unit (SPU) as well as Police Medical Teams.

     

     

     

    “We will also be deploying three (3) Police helicopters for aerial surveillance as well as detachments of Marine Police Operatives, specially trained Force Animals, and our unique Technical Intelligence capability towards guaranteeing a safe, secure, and credible electoral process in the State.

     

    “Drawing on our previous election security operations, we have also emplaced adequate forward and reverse logistics arrangements for a seamless police operation and have also made requisite arrangements to address the welfare needs of all personnel being deployed for the operation.

     

     

     

    “In assuring law-abiding citizens and stakeholders of their safety during the election, let me warn subversive elements who are bent on employing violence to attempt to threaten our democratic values, as well as any political actors who may want to adopt undemocratic and illegal means to achieve their aspirations to bury such thoughts now or be prepared to face the consequences, as they will be identified, isolated and made to face the wrath of the law no matter how highly or lowly placed they may be,” he said.

     

    Anambra guber: We’re ready for improved poll —INEC

     

     

     

    On its part, the INEC said it is ready to conduct a near-perfect governorship election in Anambra.

     

    Professor Yakubu Mahmood, Chairman of INEC, said this at a Workshop for Journalists on Election Processes and Procedures in Awka, on Thursday.

     

    Mahmood, who was represented by Mr Victor Aluko, Director of Publicity in the Commission said the November 6 election would enjoy the deployment of modern technology which would make it more improved than all previous exercises.

     

    He said the entire process from registration to transmission of results would be fully automated including the use of bimodal, which took care of unimodal identification processes which only verified voters by fingerprints.

     

    The chairman said there were a total of 2,525,471 registered voters in the state after an additional 77,471 generated during the just-concluded Continuous Voter Registration exercise.

     

    He urged journalists to help the Commission disseminate the right information as they were crucial to the success of the election process, noting that sending the wrong information could inflame society.

     

    On his part, Mr Chuwkuemeka Nnaji, Head of Department, ICT, INEC Awka Office said the Commission improved on its system using an indigenous team of engineers.

     

    Nnaji said the process was such that human interference was greatly reduced and that data uploaded online would be highly secured from cyber attacks and hackers.

     

    He said the prospective voter would be identified by various fractures including their faces and that nobody would be able to vote twice as the registration had been cleaned up.

     

    According to him, the Commission’s desire of having credible elections is sacrosanct, technology deployment has proven to be an effective tool in achieving the set objectives.

     

    “They need to have one-person-one-vote is what has necessitated the deployment of a Bimodal Voter Authentication System (BVAS);

     

    “The need to ensure the credibility and openness of the Commission has necessitated the deployment of the IReV Portal, so we ask for the cooperation of all to enable the Commission to meet its set objectives,” he said.

     

    In his opening remark, Dr Nwachukwu Orji, Resident Electoral Commissioner in Anambra said the workshop was to update journalists with the progress made ahead of the election.

     

    Orji, who was represented by Mr Samuel Nimem, Head of Voter Education and Publicity in Awka, urged the media to report facts and not engage in interpreting what they did not understand.

     

    He said the Commission was available to journalists who wished to get clarifications while urging them to endeavour to get accreditation for coverage of the election proper.

     

    Supreme court clears coast for Soludo

     

    The apex court, in a unanimous decision by a five-man panel of Justices, voided the judgement of a Jigawa State High Court, which made a consequential order that sacked the Chief Victor Oye-led National Working Committee, NWC, of APGA, and recognized Chief Jude Okeke as the Acting National Chairman of the party.

     

    Justice Musa Ubale of the Jigawa State High Court had in the judgement he delivered on June 30, in suit No. JDU/022/2021, ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to only recognize the Okeke-led faction of the party which conducted a parallel primary election that produced Chief Chukwuma Umeoji as APGA’s candidate for the impending governorship poll.

     

    The high court judgement was however voided on August 10 by the Kano Division of the Court of Appeal, which reinstated the Chief Oye-led NWC of the party that organised the primary election that produced Soludo.

     

    The appellate court, in a unanimous decision by a three-man panel of Justices led by Justice Haruna Tsammani, maintained that the Jigawa state high court lacked the territorial jurisdiction to entertain a matter relating to the leadership of a political party.

     

    It, therefore, voided the consequential order that was issued against APGA leadership under Oye.

     

    Dissatisfied with the verdict, Okeke, who was previously the Deputy National Chairman (South) of APGA, took the matter before the Supreme Court, where he lost on Thursday.

     

    Okeke had in processes he filed before the apex court, insisted that he was duly appointed by the National Executive Committee, NEC, of APGA, to act as National Chairman, pending when the party would hold its convention.

     

    However, the apex court panel led by Justice Mary Odili, in their judgement, held that two separate appeals marked SC/CV/650/2021 and SC/CV/687/2021, which were filed by Okeke, lacked merit.

     

    The panel noted that both appeals bordered on who should be recognized as Acting National Chairman of APGA, as well as, whether Oye was validly removed as National Chairman of the party.

     

    It held that the Deputy National Chairman of the party (North), Alhaji Rabiu Aliyu, who filed the substantive suit at the Jigawa state high court that led to the judgement in favour of Okeke, engaged in “forum shopping”.

     

    The apex court held that Aliyu’s action amounted to gross abuse of the judicial process.

     

    While affirming the judgement of the Court of Appeal, the Supreme Court, held that the high court in Jigawa state should not have entertained a matter that was clearly outside its territorial jurisdiction, stressing that issues in dispute in the case occurred in Awka and Owerri.

     

    More so, the apex court held that the subject matter of the suit was not justiciable, being an internal affair of a political party.

     

    Justice Odili, who read the lead judgement held that the Supreme Court, having resolved issue six in the appeal marked SC/CV/687/2021, against the Appellant, “the entire foundation of the case collapses”.

     

    She, therefore, dismissed the two appeals and awarded a cost of N1million in favour of the 1st and 2nd Respondents (APGA and Chief Oye).

     

    Jubilation greets Supreme Court ruling in Anambra

     

    There was jubilation in various parts of Anambra State yesterday after the news filtered in that the Supreme Court had ruled that Chief Victor Oye is the authentic national chairman of APGA, and therefore had the authority to nominate the governorship candidate of the party for the forthcoming poll.

     

    Shortly after the news of the judgement of the Supreme Court filtered into the state, many people drove round the streets to express joy that the governorship candidate of APGA, Professor Chukwuma Soludo had overcome all the obstacles on his way as the flag bearer of the party ahead of the November 6 election.

     

    With the judgement, Oye has the right to submit the name of the APGA candidate in the election to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

     

    Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. C. Don Adinuba, who is the director of media for the APGA campaign organization said Oye’s submission of the name of Soludo to INEC as the APGA candidate in the forthcoming election was, therefore, in accordance with the extant laws of the land.

     

    Adinuba said: “The Supreme Court has, once again, demonstrated that the Nigerian judiciary is a temple of justice. It does not just give judgements, but also dispenses justice.”

     

    APGA hails Supreme Court verdict

     

    The APGA, yesterday, commended the judiciary for their doggedness in defending the cause of democracy against those whose activities are inimical to national development and ethos.

     

    National Chairman of the party, Dr. Victor Ike Oye, in a statement entitled, “Thank you all”, called on APGA members all over the country to continue to work together for the growth and development of the party.

     

    He said: “Today the Supreme Court of Nigeria reaffirmed the leadership of APGA under me by unanimously dismissing the twin-suit filed by one Jude Okeke and his cohorts.

     

    “We thank God for his mercifulness and compassion and for seeing us through the intense legal battles. By this victory we have been called to greater service to our great party.

     

    “The November 6, 2021 Anambra State Governorship Election is drawing closer and this places an additional responsibility on us collectively and individually as members of the party.

     

    “We must guard our loins and take up the gauntlet for the task ahead by ensuring that nothing distracts us as we work for victory in the Anambra State Governorship election.

     

    “We use this opportunity to call on all of us to reach out to our members all over the country about the need to continue to work together for the growth and development of our party. We need everybody on board as we work to reposition our party for 2021 and 2023.

     

    “We thank the judiciary for their doggedness in defending the cause of democracy and shutting out those whose activities are inimical to national development and ethos.”

     

    Supreme court confirmation of Soludo brightens APGA chances – Abia leader

     

    Leader of the All Progressive Grand Alliance APGA in Abia State, and member representing Aba South in the state House of Assembly, Hon. Obinna Ichita, hailed the Supreme Court judgement, saying the judgement will brighten the party’s chances at the poll.

     

    Hon. Ichita who was addressing newsmen after assuming the role of Leader of APGA in Abia, said the judgement had once again confirmed the judiciary as the last hope of the common man.

     

    The lawmaker who predicted a landslide for APGA at the forthcoming Anambra election described Solu do as the man with the economic blueprint to consolidate the foundation and legacies of APGA-led administration in the state.

     

     

     

     

     

    Source: www.vanguardngr.com

  • Obiano entreats Anambra traditional rulers in favour of Soludo

     

    Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano has enjoined Anambra State Traditional Rulers to join hands and work towards ensuring that the APGA governorship candidate, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo emerges victorious in the November 6th, 202 election.

     

    The Traditional Rulers under the auspices of Anambra Traditional Rulers Council converged on Professor Dora Akunyili Women’s Development Center, Awka where they met with the governor yesterday.

     

     

     

    Governor Obiano said his major aim of gathering the traditional rulers was to appreciate them, having worked well with his administration’s two terms. He pleaded with them to endorse and support the APGA candidate at the polls.

     

    While Presenting the APGA candidate to them, Governor Obiano noted that APGA administration did well under Peter Obi and that that his government also did well under APGA. He said Professor Soludo will do best when he assumes office because he performed well managing the Nigerian economy and has the reach, contacts, hence, will be able to attract developments into the state.

     

    Chairman of South East and Anambra Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Alfred Achebe, State Chairman of APGA, Norbert Obi, Senator Victor Umeh, Special Adviser to the Governor on Chieftaincy Matters, Veraqueen Okonkwo and Chief Alex Onukwue, among others were present at th e meeting.

  • Ifeanyi Ubah Reiterates Commitment Towards Human Capital Development.

    IFEANYI UBAH REITERATES COMMITMENT TOWARDS HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT

    Engages Constituents In An Interactive “One On One” Radio Program

    Doles Out Assorted Gift Items To Lucky Winners

     

    By Bertram O. Nwajagu

     

    In line with his principle of accountability and uplifting the wellbeing of the people, the Senator representing Anambra South Senatorial District and National Leader of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, on Thursday, reassured his constituents and Anambrarians in general that he would continue to champion life-changing actions that would improve their wellbeing and develop the Igbo economy. The Senator made the remarks during a live interactive radio programme on Authority 91.9FM, Nnewi.

    According to Senator Ubah, human capital development is a very essential part of economic development and as a Senator, this has served as his priority and first-line charge as he not only works towards attracting federal government presence to various parts of Anambra South and the entire State in general but also deploys great efforts in ensuring that he touches lives through various empowerment strategies and programs.

    The Distinguished Senator further maintained that, with adequate government presence , quality policies and programmes, dividends that will better the wellbeing of the people will keep being channelled to the various communities. The YPP National Leader also used the opportunity to call on citizens to remain upbeat and hopeful as he will keep doing his best towards ensuring their general economic well being and human capital upliftment.

    He used yesterday’s event to play host to and dole out various items as promised to the beneficiaries who were lucky winners on a previous radio interactive session with him. The lucky winners who were drawn from various villages in the state, which comprise of men, women and two kids were also given the opportunity of a first-time experience inside a radio studio where they spoke to their loved ones, said prayers for the Senator and narrated their individual stories to the listeners live on radio.

    One of them, Mrs Onyinye Enwelum, who came to the studio to claim her gift narrated how she usually listens whenever the Senator is on air but had never called in because she feels she won’t get through due to the huge traffic caused by other callers trying to engage with the Senator during the program. She said that a voice prompted her to attempt to call, lo and behold her call was connected to the Senator, and like a trance, she became the proud owner of a brand new deep freezer.

    Mrs Enwelum went on to narrate how she is about to start up a new provisions store business and has been buying the items on her list gradually but didn’t find it easy to acquire a refrigerator due to its high cost. She expressed her belief that there is indeed a divine message behind what transpired that night. She insisted that the same divine mandate is behind the events propelling the Senator to the Government House and prayed for the success of the open door revolution.

    A memorable moment that elicited great joy amongst both the audience inside the studio and the listeners during the program was when one of the beneficiaries from Utuh, Mrs Chukwu who won an electric oven while speaking in the studio narrated how her husband Mr Nathaniel Chukwu, an okada rider lost his bike and is presently bedridden as a result of an accident he had some weeks ago .The Anambra South Senator on the spot donated a brand new Motorcycle to the husband and assured him that his Foundation will follow up in order to ensure his total recovery from the accident. Senator Ubah who immediately sent emissaries to locate the man while the radio session was on, spoke with him on phone, and wished him a quick recovery. He also urged the beneficiary to remain grateful to God and informed him that his Foundation will continue to provide every necessary assistance to enable him get back on his feet and fend for his family

    Responding from his sickbed, the beneficiary who couldn’t hide his joy thanked Senator Ubah for always standing by the masses. He further thanked him for championing quality legislations at the National Assembly, changing the narratives in the senatorial district and prayed God to continue to guide and protect him.

    Items distributed to randomly selected radio listeners include motorcycles, deep freezers, LED display TV sets, electric ovens, microwave ovens and electric fans. It was an event that empowered as well as put smiles on the faces of numerous families in the State.

    The interactive radio program continues tonight at 9 pm as the Senator will be in the studio once again to interact with and receive more feedback from his people in line with his open-door style of representation.

    Indeed a new Anambra is possible with Senator Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah.

    #InterventionsThatMatter.

    #OpenDoorRevolution

  • Interview with Lady Chidi Onyemelukwe, Anambra 2021 PDP Governorship Aspirant

    Interview with Lady Chidi Onyemelukwe, Anambra 2021 PDP Governorship Aspirant | Awka | May, 3, 2021.

     

    Lady Onyemelukwe was a running mate to Oseloka Obaze of the Peoples Democratic Party in the 2017 Anambra Gubernatorial Election. In this interview with The Pacesetter Frontier Magazine, she reels out her plans for Anambra.

     

     

    What are your plans for the state as Governor? 

    My manifesto says it all. Our dear state needs restoration in all facets because over the past eight years people have experienced leadership, trust, fiscal, economic and infrastructure deficits. My priorities are to restore trust and confidence, in both leadership and government; to get our state infrastructure working again; to sustain and protect existing public infrastructure and public properties; to complete viable abandoned projects and place Anambra state on the path to greatness, God being our helper.

    Simply, to take Anambra from good to great. In the pecking order of states and in all facets – good governance, solvency, economic, political, educations, industry and commerce, housing, welfare, revenue generation, power sufficiency, and infrastructure – I want to see Anambra ranked in the top 5 in Nigeria, and consistently so. That is my plan.

    Many believe Anambra isn’t yet ripe for a woman as governor. What gives you the confidence that you can overcome that perception? Why do you think Anambra needs a female Governor this time?

    Such perception could be misinterpreted as being sexist; but I won’t go that route, since I know there is a cultural angle to it. Anambra needs a female Governor because we need to do things differently. Moreover, today in Nigeria we have had a female Chief Justice, a female Admiral, A female Army General, female senators – indeed Anambra has two presently- and female captains of industry. We have also had a female deputy Governor and Governor in Anambra State. So, where is this ‘not being ripe’ coming from? I think we should leave the perception and deal with the realities. My confidence comes from God and from my God given abilities.

    What moved you to aspire to become Governor of Anambra?  

    It is easy to see that things are not working optimally. The situation could get a lot worse if we fold our hands. I am moved by a strong desire to serve selflessly. To sustain legacy and to get the job done right with the fear of God.  It’s that simple.

    What is your motivation in the race?

    Leadership is about service. I am privileged to have been well travelled. I have been to places where things work and are taken for granted. Even here in Nigeria, in the so-called good old days, potable water was available in most urban areas, the roads were few but well maintained, public properties were well maintained by the Public Works Department (PWD). If we improve the quality of life, give our people hope and better life, that ought to be sufficient motivation. As the saying goes, to whom much is given, much is expected. I want to give back. I want a state that our children are proud to call home. As a child growing up, holidays in the village were always the highlight of my year. These days, the young ones are mostly looking for a way out. A lot has gone wrong. We need to get back on the right track.

    What do you want to do right and perhaps differently?

    Our approach of doing things differently will be dual-tracked: create opportunities and an enabling environment to make governance seamless and reform and strengthen our public institutions. So we will bring experience to the table, follow due process, and accountability anchored on the fear of God. Our governance mantra, ethics and values will be premised on accountability and transparency. We shall offer opportunities for our people to get affordable healthcare, good education, gainful employment and dividends of democracy. We will engage in gender mainstreaming at all levels, bureaucratic and political. Elective and appointive positions will be based on a 60:40 ratio.

    If given the opportunity, my team and I, shall reform and strengthen our governance institutions to serve the public interest and the common cause, guarantee investors’ interest and confidence, restore capital inflow and sustainable development. Our budgetary process shall be transparent and results-based. Our policies will be people-driven. Anambra State will be fiscally secure and solvent under my watch.

    How do you see the influx of Billionaires in the race?

    Money is good as what it can buy for you. It could also be detrimental, if not well deployed. Campaign financing laws took care of that. No candidate can justifiably exceed the N200 million spelled out by the Electoral Act for vying for governorship. Doing so is sufficient grounds for disqualification. So, wealth is just one attribute of the race. Someone mentioned to me that Anambra has the highest concentration of millionaires and billionaires. So it’s only natural that some of them aspire to govern the state. What is key, is what added value each aspirant brings to the table.

    What do you think the state lacks that you will provide?

    Like Nigeria, Anambra State is blessed with human and material resources. Really, we lack nothing in that sense. What we need is focused, transformative, adaptive and purposeful leadership that will deploy its energy and the state’s finances and resources in promoting the common cause, welfare and giving our people a better life. Of course, in doing so, one would strive to provide facilities that would address the unmet needs, in housing, healthcare, education, food sufficiency potable water, power, employment and infrastructure.

     

    What is your rating of the serving governor and those before him?

    By the mercies of the Almighty, in 2017, I ran on a joint ticket as deputy to Oseloka H. Obaze. Today, I am running for the top job so my ratings stand a great risk of being viewed as biased. Such assessments are the prerogatives of the Anambra people. I will suggest that you direct your question to the everyday citizens of Anambra State. They are in a better position to provide an unbiased answer to those questions. But so you don’t think I’m doing the dodge, I’ll tell you this. As a citizen I have one vote. And I know that in 2017, I did not vote for the incumbent.

    Do you think your party can win the November 6 poll?

    PDP is in the race to win. I am in the race to win. Many believe that the ruling parties, both at the central and state levels have not acquitted themselves creditably and therefore traditional and primordial sentiments alone, cannot return or put them in power in Anambra state. It’s time for a reality check. The outcome of the November 6 election, barring anything untoward, will be in the hands of the Anambra electorate, and of course, in the hands of God.

    What is the influence of former governors like Peter Obi and others in the choosing of the next governor?

    PDP is the longest and presently the only active party amongst those founded at the cusp of the return to democracy in 1999. We have institutional capacity, institutional memory, and sagacious stakeholders and leaders. These leaders, like Peter Obi, are highly respected and wield sufficient influence to advise the party on how to do things right in the interest of the party, and to ensure equity, credibility and transparency. Insofar as their individual and collective influence are germane and in tandem with the aspirations of the party, their respective roles remains critical.

     

    Do you think you have enough political pedigree to clinch the ticket against several tested personalities?

    With all modesty, if political and social pedigree were the only factors for winning this election, I believe I’m in good stead to be the next Governor of our dear state. Of those you refer to as tested, none became Governor, and just a few have been on the ticket of major parties either as candidate or deputy, so we are all essentially at the same level. What matters most, is what Anambra needs at this juncture to leapfrog from stagnation to eminence and prosperity. I’m offering myself and my services to make that dream a reality.

    Some under aged children are roaming the streets selling different kinds of commodities. How can you help curb such activities?

    Our platform has offered the solution to addressing the scourge of out-of-school children, of which there are over 13 million in Nigeria. Our approach will be simple but efficient and practical: we intend to invest aggressively in primary, secondary, vocational and tertiary education. We will also make Primary and Secondary education mandatory and free up to Junior Secondary level in order to lower out-of-school and dropout rates. We will devote U.N. prescribed budgetary allocation of 26% to education. That ought to do the magic.

  • Soludo reveals in his Interactive session with Journalists how his life and Family was threatened severally during his Tenure as the CBN Governor

    A former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof. Charles Soludo, has said his family went into exile because of several threats to their lives when he introduced the banking consolidation policy in 2004.

     

    Soludo added that he received 19 written threats to his life following that policy.

     

     

    He stated this in an interactive session with some journalists in Awka, the Anambra State capital.

     

    Soludo, who is contesting for the governorship of Anambra State on the platform of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, said a good leader must be adamant and revolutionary when embarking on progressive policies.

     

    He said, “I am a very impatient person to see change happen and I am passionate in anything I focus on. At that time, no bank in Nigeria was in the top 1,000 banks in the world. If you needed to make an investment of $500m, you had to go through the then 39 banks and it was an impossible task.

     

     

    “If you wanted to borrow abroad, there was no bank here to guarantee that. So, I came to the realisation that if we wanted to build a private sector-driven economy, it was not possible with the rickety ‘mama and papa’ banks, which could not guarantee even N3m loan. We, therefore, needed to pull down the house and rebuild it.

     

    “There was nothing I did not see. I received 19 written threats to my life. Even there were attempts to kidnap my children at Offa in Kwara State. So, it was a very brutal revolution. I had to evacuate my family during the banking consolidation because when you want to uproot a system, it is usually a deadly routine.”

     

     

    The Professor of Economics said his quest to govern the state was not for personal enrichment as God had blessed him all round, even bef ore he became 30 years.

     

     

     

    Source: www.punchng.com

  • Soludo should drop out of the November 6 governorship race and seek international jobs like Okonjo-Iweala – Akachukwu Nwankpo

    former Special Adviser to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, on Technical Matters, Akachukwu Nwankpo, says a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, should emulate his peers and seek international jobs like former Finance Minister, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who recently emerged as the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation.

     

    He advised Soludo to drop out of the November 6 governorship race instead of grandstanding as the sole governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Grand Alliance in the race.

     

    Soludo had last week formally declared his intention to contest in the poll on the platform of APGA amid wide jubilation across the state.

     

    But Nwankpo who spoke in the Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area on Sunday said, “Soludo is a very brilliant Anambra son who is renowned and very well-travelled. I once teased him by asking him why he is here in the governorship race, when he ought to be in the world space. I hear Okonjo-Iweala every day, doing all the things she does around the world, and we believe Soludo should be there too. That is the kind of place that befits him.

     

    “The notion that the APGA ticket is settled and reserved for him is a strategy to convince everyone that the APGA race for the ticket is closed. It is a brilliant approach, but it is not true. It is only a gimmick to scare others.”

     

     

     

    Source: www.punchng.com