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By Madu Obi It was indeed a proper homecoming for Governor Chukwuma Soludo, as he was received warmly by his people of Isuofia, Aguata local government area during the roundup of his governorship campaign in the area. Expectedly, his people boosted his campaign with N200 million donation, which perhaps, is the highest donation from any community. Addressing the mammoth crowd at the Central School Field, Isuofia, Soludo urged them to come out and vote in the upcoming governorship election scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025 for his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance, (APGA). As he addressed the enthusiastic supporters, who sang and danced across the arena, Governor Soludo emphasized the importance of civic engagement and the need for every eligible voter to participate in the electoral process. “Election day is not just about choosing leaders; it is about choosing the future we want for our children and generations to come. Let us come together and show the strength of our community. Across Anambra, they say we are the consensus candidate but your vote is your voice, and on November 8, I urge each of you to make that voice heard,” he stated. He spoke on the impact of grassroots mobilization in shaping the future of Anambra State and highlighted some of the achievements of his administration that have benefited the people of the state since assuming office. “We have accomplished so much together, but there is still more work to be done. Your continued support is vital for us to reach our goals,” he told them. The event also provided an opportunity for community leaders and local influencers in the area to express their support for Soludo, reinforcing the governor’s connection to Isuofia and its residents. A stakeholder, Chief Evarist Ubah: “Soludo has shown unwavering commitment to our state. We must stand by him and ensure he has the mandate to continue his good work.” The President General of the Isuofia People's Movement, Engr. Fidelis Okafor, alongside Engr. Ifeanyi Ifemelu and other community leaders enthusiastically endorsed Soludo’s candidacy during the rally. “As our son, Governor Soludo has always been accessible to us, listening to our concerns and needs. His dedication to grassroots governance has truly transformed the state and projected our community in a good light", Okafor said. On his part, Engr. Ifemelu added: “His policies have had a positive impact on our lives, and it is essential for him to return to office to continue this momentum. We need his leadership now more than ever.” Governor Soludo's homecoming rally in Isuofia served not only as a platform to mobilize support for the November 8 election, but also as a celebration of community spirit and unity. With a donation of over 200 million naira and strong backing from his hometown, Governor Soludo aims to secure a decisive victory as he seeks to continue his tenure as Governor of Anambra State.

By Madu Obi Former governor of Anambra State and Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr Peter Obi had said that although he belongs to the Labour Party and has campaigned for its candidate for the November 8 governorship election, his main concern is for the election to be free and fair. Addressing reporters at Agulu, Anaocha local government area, Obi added that all the contestants are his friends and urged them to have the interest of Anambra State at the back of their minds as they go into the poll. "For this election, my party is Labour Party. I want free and fair election. All the contestants are my friends. As a member of Labour Party, I am supporting the candidate of the LP, but not to the extent of vote buying.because I can never buy votes. I cannot go to the extent of doing anything untoward for the election. I want the election to be totally free and fair. I'm not on the ballot and I believe that all of them contesting are related to me one way or the other. Let Anambra people decide who will be their governor. People should not indulge in vote buying. I'm not against any of them, never. I finished being the governor of Anambra State 12 years ago and I have no reason to worry myself about this governorship election. I became governor at the age of 42. Our people should decide who is the best candidate for them."

By Madu Obi The Inspector General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbetokun has announced the deployment of CP Abayomi Shogunle to head election duty in Anambra State, during the November 8 governorship election. This was conveyed to journalists in a press release by the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga. Ikenga in the release announced that Shogunle had already resumed as the Commissioner of Police to take charge of policing in the state for the forthcoming Anambra State poll. Ikenga said: "Upon assumption of duty, CP Shogunle activated the IGP’s Enforcement Protocol for anti-electoral offences to ensure zero tolerance for ballot snatching, vote-buying, political thuggery, and voter intimidation. The CP has also emplaced a central command framework to ensure real-time intelligence sharing, coordination, and rapid response with a joint deployment of over 60,000 security personnel of agencies within the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) who will secure the 5,720 polling units with tactical reserves along inter-LGA and state boundaries, and also designated election collation centers. The CP has also stepped up the Electoral Offences Desk, EOD, to monitor social media and online spaces towards identifying cyber-related crimes for prompt investigation and prosecution. He said CP Shogunle’s posting was in line with the policing operational strategy approved by the IGP, which is aimed at enhancing strategic security planning towards ensuring a peaceful, credible, and transparent electoral process in the state. Ikenga quoted the CP as reiterating the total ban on all vigilante groups such as Agunechemba and all other quasi-security groups in the state, adding that only the federal government security agencies are authorized to provide election security duties as provided by the laws of the federation. He said VIP movements with armed escorts or security aides at polling or collation centres are strictly prohibited, warning that violators will face immediate apprehension, withdrawal of such escorts, and prosecution. Only designated INEC officials, accredited observers, and journalists are allowed to move freely between designated areas", he said.

By Madu Obi Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has reiterated his commitment to strengthening education and healthcare infrastructure across Nigeria. He made this known during a visit to the Anglican School of Nursing Sciences, Oji River, Enugu State, where he donated ₦10 million to support infrastructure and academic development. Obi was received at the Bishop’s Court by the Anglican Bishop of Oji River, The Rt. Rev Ikechukwu Joseph Egbuonu, before proceeding to the institution. He interacted with staff and students and reaffirmed his belief that investment in human capital remains the most sustainable strategy for national growth and development. He applauded the Diocese for its consistent investment in healthcare education, noting that faith-based institutions have historically played a transformative role in Nigeria’s educational advancement. He also encouraged the students to remain disciplined and committed to excellence in service to humanity. In his remarks, Bishop Egbuonu expressed deep appreciation for Obi’s continuous support for educational institutions nationwide and prayed for God’s guidance upon him. He praised Obi’s dedication to public good, remarking that “society would be a much better place if all politicians were like Peter Obi.” As an example of the Diocese’s commitment to development and its alignment with Obi’s philosophy of production-driven growth, Bishop Egbuonu highlighted the establishment of a large agricultural farm to support food production and empower the community. He also disclosed that the Diocese had established two secondary schools offering free education to indigent students. The Bishop further revealed that the Oji River General Hospital, originally owned by the Church, had recently been returned to the Diocese by the Enugu State government under Governor Peter Mbah and following this revelation, Obi proceeded to visit the hospital. At the hospital, Obi expressed hope that the Church would be supported in restoring the hospital to proper function and lauded Governor Mbah for the gesture. He commended the positive developments ongoing in Enugu State, urging the government to further assist the Church financially to accelerate the rehabilitation efforts because the facility would ultimately serve humanity. Obi was accompanied on the visit by Nigeria’s first female Professor of Mass Communication, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, who expressed her delight at his unwavering dedication to education and healthcare development. She recalled his legacy as Anambra State Governor, where he prioritized human capital investment and has continued to uphold that philosophy long after leaving office. Prof. Okunna noted that his support remains a source of hope for institutions training critical manpower for the nation’s health sector and encouraged leaders to emulate his selfless approach to public service.

By Madu Obi Former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the United States government’s recent designation of Nigeria as a 'Country of Particular Concern' (CPC), with indications of possible military consideration in response to Nigeria’s worsening security situation. In a statement, Obi said the development should “give every well-meaning Nigerian serious concern,” noting that the nation is currently experiencing an “unprecedented level of insecurity” marked by loss of lives and property on a disturbing scale. Citing figures from Amnesty International, he stated that over 10,000 Nigerians have been killed since May 2023, describing the situation as “shocking, unwarranted, and unprovoked", insisting that the ongoing carnage is avoidable with competent leadership and effective governance. “The unwarranted killing of Nigerians is most condemnable, and all efforts must be made to bring it to a stop. The insecurity persists due to lack of competence, commitment, prudent use of resources, patriotism and passion on the part of the APC-led government," Obi said. While acknowledging that the security crisis predates the current administration, Obi criticized what he referred to as the government’s inability to “galvanize and lead Nigeria where no one is oppressed and killed. He emphasized the historical strategic partnership between Nigeria and the United States, rooted in democratic values and regional peace, stressing that both nations must work together to address the crisis. “That relationship should not falter. “The present situation calls for constructive diplomatic and any other plausible engagement by both nations aimed at addressing the prevailing and disturbing security concerns", he stated. Obi called for urgent, coordinated action between Abuja and Washington, insisting that peace, truth, and justice must prevail for Nigeria to move forward. The development has heightened national debate on Nigeria’s security trajectory and international image, with many analysts warning of serious diplomatic and economic implications if the situation deteriorates further.

By Madu Obi The Inspector General of Police(IGP), Kayode Egbetokun has urged the political parties fielding candidates for Saturday's Anambra governorship election to embrace peace before, during and after the election. The IGP, who was represented by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Operations, Force Headquarters Abuja, DIG Ben Okolo, reiterated the importance of political tolerance and respect for democratic values, urging all candidates and their supporters to ensure a hitch free process. He reaffirmed the readiness of the Police and other security agencies to provide adequate security for the election, pointing out that the police would remain neutral and professional in the discharge of their duties as always, through out the election period. The Inspector General commended the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, Ikioye Orutugu, for his proactive security measures/ engagements and continuous advocacy for peace across the state. The IGP warned that state - controlled security outfits would not be part of the security operatives that would carry out election duty, as any of the seen would be dealt with. He also warned that candidates and other politicians would not be accompanied to the voting exercise to ensure unimpeded process throughout the state. No fewer than 25,000 policemen have already been deployed to maintain peace during the election, in addition to other operatives from the sister security agencies.

The governorship candidates during the peace accord signing ceremony in Awka By Madu Obi The 16 governorship candidates contesting the November 8 election in Anambra State and their chairmen, have signed a peace accord, promising, on behalf of their supporters, to ensure a peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the election. The signing ceremony, which took place at the International Convention Center, Awka, was witnessed by members of the National Peace Committee, headed by the former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubarkar, who was represented by General Martin Luther Agwai (rtd). Convener of the National Peace Committee, Most Rev Mathew Kukah, while addressing the audience, said the confidence of the citizens is strengthened when institutions carry out their duties effectively. He commended the people of Anambra State for making the committee's work easy by providing the facilities used for the signing ceremony. He also urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the country, noting that whatever happens is what God has sanctioned. The cleric also urged the people of Anambra State to live according to their name, which is the "light of the nation" by ensuring a peaceful conduct of the governorship election. In his speech, the state chairman of the Inter Party Advisory Committee, IPAC, Chief Uche Ugwoji appealed to the electorate to maintain an atmosphere of serenity, tranquility and non violence and shun all forms of inducement during the election. According to him, it is in recognition of the importance of the election that INEC and the political parties have deemed it expedient to enter into the peace agreement with a view to making the election free, fair and credible. "It is also in line with this that we of the IPAC, in exercise of our duties, have decided to offer some piece of advice aimed at making that peace realizable. We urge the security outfits to maintain a high level of professionalism in the maintenance of law and order and refuse to be used as agents of intimidation, harassment and interference in the voting proper. INEC officials are the the umpire and the pivot of the whole electoral process. On your shoulders rests fairness, smoothness and credibility of the election. It is therefore imperative that you achieve these feats by plugging all loopholes, including: * Make sure that the polling cubicles are spacious enough to enable the voter go in, thumbprint and insert the ballot paper into the ballot box provided therein, thereby, curtailing the chances of inducement and vote buying. *Ensure that the polling units are restricted to only your officials, party agents and security agents. *Employ only regular security operatives like the Nigerian Police and others of the Federal establishment in the maintenance of law and order. *Provide neutral grounds for collation of results, and where Local Government Headquarters are to be used, ensuring that no political party or its officer influences the entry and or exit of electoral personnel or material or the actual collation of the results." Ugwoji observed that all the peace accord and electoral process would come to nothing if the candidates and their supporters are not disposed to accept the outcome of the election, when it is free and fair. "This does not imply that you should not seek redress if you are genuinely not satisfied with the conduct of the election. All I am saying is that you should resist the temptation of inciting your supporters to violence and disruption of public peace and unnecessary litigations. Instead, accept the outcome with equanimity, outstretched hands of friendship, accord and concord", the IPAC chairman advised. The state governor and candidate of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Professor Chukwuma Soludo said that being the first election to be conducted by the new INEC chairman, all eyes would be on the Anambra election. He described all the candidates as his friends, noting that "after the Saturday election, by Monday, we will be hugging each other for a successful exercise." He said: "In Anambra we fight as if there will be no tomorrow, but at the end of the day, we see ourselves in various functions and embrace and share drinks. INEC had done it before in this state and we believe the commission will improve on the previous exercises. We trust that the process INEC has set up will ensure free, credible and transparent election. This time around, we expect nothing short of what you had done previously. We believe that once INEC does what it has advertised, everyone will be happy. I want to assure all stakeholders that the candidates are ready and we hope that this first election under Professor Joash Amupitan will be the best election ever, in terms of transparency, due process, integrity of all the processes". He thanked Bishop Mathew Kukah for initiating this peace accord, stating, "The agreement we just signed is very important for our democratic process and we hope that all those who signed it will take every word in it seriously. We should make the document available to all our party members, internalize and see it as a sacred oath." The governor also thanked the Police for assuring Anambra people of security during the election, saying that Anambra people are prepared to cooperate with security agencies to ensure the success of the polls. "If all of us commit ourselves to ensure that the election is successful, our people will be happy", Soludo said.

By Madu Obi As part of efforts to guarantee safety and ensure a hitch-free Anambra governorship election on November 8, the state Police Command has received the Force Headquarters Advance Tactical Teams deployed to strengthen the security architecture across all the over 5,000 polling units in the state. The deployment, approved by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, is in line with the strategic operational plan of the Police to reinforce local formations with additional manpower and advanced technical support, including helicopters and drones for aerial surveillance. Receiving the tactical teams in Awka, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, expressed appreciation to the IGP for his unwavering support and commitment towards ensuring the safety of lives and property in Anambra State before, during and after the election. According to the CP, the aerial surveillance will complement ongoing land patrols by tactical units, intelligence operatives, and police special squads strategically deployed across all 21 local government areas of the state. He emphasized that the combined efforts of the Command and the newly arrived tactical operatives will further enhance visibility policing, intelligence- driven operations, and rapid response to emerging threats. The CP added that the deployment of helicopters and surveillance drones will enable real-time monitoring of key locations, border communities, and flash points, while ground teams will maintain robust patrols and checkpoint operations across all the 21 local government areas of the state. Orutugu reaffirmed the Command’s readiness to collaborate with sister security agencies and other stakeholders in maintaining peace, law and order, especially as the Governorship Election draws closer. He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of the Police, by promptly reporting suspicious persons or movements to the nearest Police Station or through the Command’s emergency hotlines: 07039194332 or 08039334002. He also assured of the firm commitment of security operatives to ensuring a secure environment where law-abiding citizens can go about their lawful duties without fear or intimidation.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State Police Command has concluded its statewide security election advocacy tour, which took the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu and his top officers, to all the Area Commands that cover the 21 local government areas of the state. The exercise, which was concluded on November 1st, at the Awka Area Command, was part of an engagement by the Police to ensure a smooth governorship election on November 8. The CP said the tour marked the final phase of the Command’s strategic sensitization and capacity- strengthening engagements designed to prepare personnel for professional and effective election security operations. Speaking at the Awka Area command, CP Orutugu commended the officers for their dedication and discipline throughout the advocacy campaign, emphasizing the importance of neutrality, professionalism, and respect for human rights during election duties. According to him, the Anambra State Police Command remains fully prepared and fortified for the protection of lives and property before, during and after the election, assuring residents that all tactical units, intelligence teams, and patrol formations have been placed on heightened alert, with adequate logistics support and coordination among sister security agencies. He further charged the officers to maintain vigilance, demonstrate courage, and uphold the core values of the Nigeria Police Force in ensuring that peace and order prevails throughout the electoral process. He also encouraged members of the public to remain law-abiding and security-conscious, assuring that the Police will continue to collaborate with communities and stakeholders to guarantee a peaceful and credible election. Meanwhile, the roads leading to the city of Awka are witnessing influx of trucks of policemen arriving at carry out election duty in parts of the state. Siren - blaring by vehicles conveying security operatives to Anambra State for the election duty has become a common feature on the roads leading into the state in the past few days. The operatives were seen in their full regalia along the Enugu- Awka, Owerri-Awka, and Onitsha - Awka roads with their personal belongings loaded in the trucks. Many residents have, however, expressed confidence that the security presence would ensure a hitch free election in all parts of the state. Mr Kingsley Ubaka, who said he will be voting in Amansea, Awka North local government area, noted that the presence of the security operatives around the voting area, gives confidence to the voters.

By Madu Obi Anambra State governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Igwe Kenneth Onyeneke Orizu III of Nnewi, on the occasion of his remarkable 100th birthday. In his congratulatory message, Governor Soludo stated that thr significant centenary milestone in the life of Igwe Orizu is a historic achievement, which gladdens the heart and stirs admiration for a long-reigning monarch with undiminished vigour, wisdom, exceptional leadership, and dedication to the service of his people. "Reaching the age of 100 years is an extraordinary feat that symbolizes divine favour, resilience, and the blessing of longevity. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that His Royal Majesty has retained all his mental and physical faculties, continuing to discharge his royal duties with the same sagacity, clarity, and wisdom that have defined his illustrious reign for 62 years Throughout the six decades, His Royal Majesty has been a bastion of stability in times of change, a voice of reason in moments of tension, and a bridge-builder when division threatened. His enduring reign represents continuity, institutional memory, and the preservation of cherished cultural heritage in an era of rapid transformation. The Igwe’s contributions to Nnewi, Anambra State and Nigeria transcend traditional ceremonial functions which include fostering peace and harmony, and creating an environment conducive to economic development and social progress. Thus your national honour as a Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and your appointment as a Justice of the Peace (JP) reflect the high esteem in which you are held at the national level", the governor said. He wished the revered monarch greater divine grace, fulfillment, vitality, and many more years of wisdom and guidance as his reign continues to bring prosperity, peace, and progress to Nnewi and Anambra State.

By Madu Obi Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has expressed implicit confidence of support by voters in Njikoka, Idemili South and Nnewi North local government areas as campaign for the November 8 governorship election gradually winds down. Speaking during rallies in the three local government areas, Governor Soludo described his campaign as a divine project and a massive movement and commended his supporters for their commitment to ensure his re-election. “Four years ago, you voted and responded massively in our favour. We are convinced that this time around, you’ll give us your massive support,” he stated at Abagana, headquarters of Njikoka local government area. The governor acknowledged the grassroots nature of his campaign, remarking, “You people have taken over the campaign.” He contrasted his approach with that of other political parties, noting that it is the people that organize their respective campaigns at their own expense for him. According to the governor, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) did not require a formal flag-off and credited the momentum of his campaign to the endorsements received from the three senatorial zones of the state. “This campaign has taken us to the markets, streets, communities, and local government areas. Now, we are rounding off and embarking on door-to-door visits and doing extensive outreach efforts aimed at engaging the electorate. In the upcoming election, there are opponents, but we don’t see any opposition. I therefore urge you to actively participate in the election by stepping out and voting with your PVCs..All I can say is that we have not won until you have voted for us. We want to break the jinx and to get appreciable percentage of votes from the registered voters and I know that we can achieve it." In Idemili South, the rally was held at the local government headquarters in Ojoto, where community leaders and citizens came together to showcase their unwavering support for APGA. The enthusiastic crowd acknowledged Soludo's wonderful performance and celebrated his achievements in infrastructure development, security, and economic growth. "I appreciate the people for organizing this rally at their own expense. It is for the common people that we keep awake every night, trying to build a new society where Anambra children can live", the governor said. He urged the people to come out in droves to vote on November 8, emphasizing that collective action is crucial for driving further progress in the state. In Nnewi North, where Governor Soludo addressed supporters at Nkwọ Triangle, be urged them to combat voter apathy and participate fully in the democratic process. “Your vote is your voice, and it is essential that we conquer voter apathy in the state. I call on ndị Anambra to recognize the importance of their electoral participation", he stated.. Speakers in all the places visited by the governor hailed his achievements and promised to end the voter aparthy which had been the feature of Anambra elections. The Mayor of Idemili South, Mrs. Amaka Obi, and a prominent resident, Chief Ikenna Iyiegbu, reinforced the message of unity. "We must ensure that every vote counts in this election," Obi declared, while Iyiegbu emphasized that with the people's backing, APGA will continue to effect positive changes in Anambra. Community leader, Chiemelie Okafor added: “Our support for the governor is not just for his candidacy, but for the future of our children.” Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Ojukwu, who is also a member of the APGA Board of Trustees, reaffirmed the party’s commitment to the welfare of the people, echoing the Governor's call for mass voter mobilization. “We need everyone to come out and cast their votes,” Bianca Ojukwu said, emphasizing that the policies of Governor Soludo are built on the solid foundation of the party’s motto. Former member of the House of Representatives, Chief Dozie Nwankwo described the governor as a practical leader, stating, “His leadership style is grounded in realism and effective action. I am committed to mobilizing support for his second re-election bid.” A teacher, Stella Ogbunigwe, who spoke on the governor's impact on education, said: “The governor has truly revitalized our educational system, making it more accessible for all students.” Okechukwu Chukwuemeka also shared his positive experience, noting, “Thanks to the One Youth Two Skills Initiative, I have gained valuable skills that are helping me build a better future.” Louisa Ekezuo expressed her gratitude for the Governor’s free education policy, saying the initiative has greatly eased the financial burden on families and allowing them to invest in other important areas. Also, Mrs. Chinwe Nwobu, representing the market women of Enugwu-Ukwu, thanked the Governor for addressing critical issues. “We appreciate the governor for eliminating touting and illegal taxation, which has helped create a fairer market environment for all of us", she said. The energy and determination displayed by the people in all the local government areas highlight their enthusiasm towards the November 8 election.

By Madu Obi The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has decorated 14 newly promoted police officers of the command at a colorful ceremony held at the Police headquarters, Awka. The decorated officers include CSP Ikpeama Joy Chidimma DPO Main Market; CSP Asso Emmanuel Agbuka, DPO Amanuke;, CSP Nuhu Azeez, Officer-in-Charge of Special Anti-Cultism Squad, Obosi Sector; CSP Onyilo Thaddeus, Officer- in-Charge of Special Anti-Cultism Squad Onitsha Sector and 10 others. While congratulating the newly promoted officers, CP Orutugu urged them to see their elevation as a call to greater service, renewed discipline and professionalism in the discharge of their duties, emphasizing that promotion in the Force is both a recognition of performance and a challenge for higher responsibility. During the event, the CP also unveiled the newly renovated Commissioner of Police Hall, a project facilitated through the goodwill and benevolence of His Royal Highness, Otonye Efebo, (Shidi VII) the Amadabo of Shidi Ama Twon - Brass, Bayelsa State whose support reflects the enduring partnership between traditional institutions and the Nigeria Police Force in strengthening community-oriented policing. The CP commended the Royal Father for his unwavering support to the command, describing the gesture as a mark of patriotism and community investment in security development. He noted that the renovation of the hall will serve as an improved workspace for strategic meetings, trainings and conferences that enhance Police service delivery in the state. The Royal Father was on a visit to the Commissioner of Police, who is one of his subjects from Brass Kingdom in Bayelsa State. He expressed satisfaction with the leadership strides of CP Orutugu, particularly in fostering community engagement, discipline and visible policing presence across the State. He reaffirmed his commitment to continually support security initiatives that promote peace and stability in Anambra. The ceremony was attended by members of the Command’s Management Team, senior officers, families of the promoted officers, and other invited guests.