Abuja, NIGERIA — As President Bola Tinubu prepares for his official visit to Anambra State on Wednesday, May 8, political currents in the State have begun to shift, following a resounding endorsement of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo by prominent Igbo leader and industrialist, Chief Rommy Ezeonwuka (Rojenny).
The President is expected to commission key infrastructure projects initiated and completed under Governor Soludo’s administration. The visit, coming just over three years into Soludo’s term, is being interpreted by many political observers as a validation of his development-driven governance and a potential signal of federal goodwill toward his administration.
Chief Ezeonwuka, widely respected for his grassroots influence and industrial acumen, has seized on the occasion to call for a rare political truce in the state. Speaking to reporters, the outspoken businessman turned political voice urged gubernatorial candidates across party lines to shelve their ambitions in the interest of continued development and stability.
“Governor Soludo is doing excellently well, and even the President recognises that,” Ezeonwuka declared. “This is not the time to distract his government with unnecessary political ambitions. Anambra needs continuity, not confusion.”
The call comes amid a swell of pre-election activity as the state gears up for its next gubernatorial race. Multiple candidates have begun laying the groundwork for a challenge against Governor Soludo’s second term. Ezeonwuka, however, was unequivocal in his support.
He argued that rather than expending resources on political campaigns, the wealthy candidates should redirect their investments toward building industries and factories across the state—efforts that would create jobs, stimulate local economies, and leave a more lasting legacy.
“There is a better way to serve our people than fighting for power,” Ezeonwuka said. “Anambra needs more factories, not more billboards. The money being spent on politics can help employ thousands. Our state is not short of leaders; it is short of opportunities. Governor Soludo is already opening doors. Let us support him instead of trying to pull him down.”
Ezeonwuka remarks carry weight in Anambra political circles. Often described as a bridge between traditional authority, business leadership, and modern political movements, the Chief’s endorsement is expected to influence public discourse in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Governor Soludo, while addressing workers at the 2025 May Day celebration at Dr Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, formally disclosed President Tinubu’s impending visit. He highlighted the federal interest in Anambra’s transformation and called on workers and citizens alike to offer a warm reception.
“President Bola Tinubu will be in Anambra on May 8,” Soludo announced. “He will commission several strategic projects and meet with our key stakeholders. This is an honour to us all, and a testament to the collaborative spirit we are fostering in the state.”
The governor did not name the specific projects to be commissioned but hinted that they span critical sectors including transport, housing, and education. Under Soludo’s administration, Anambra has rolled out a series of infrastructural upgrades including roads, digital schools, and urban renewal initiatives.
The President’s itinerary is expected to include an inspection of these developments, a town hall meeting with community leaders, and a private reception hosted by Governor Soludo.
As the date draws nearer, the mood in Anambra is one of cautious optimism. For some, Tinubu’s visit is merely ceremonial. For others, it represents a moment of reckoning—a chance to reflect on progress made and the cost of political disunity.
Chief Ezeonwuka, ever the pragmatist, perhaps summed it up best: “There is a time to contest, and there is a time to consolidate. Now is the time to build.”
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