BY TONY OKAFOR
Say it anywhere: the first term of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State has, by most fair assessments, been a success story.
Since assuming office on March 17, 2022, Soludo has made visible strides in several sectors.
His administration introduced free education from primary to secondary levels in all government-owned schools, declared free antenatal care, embarked on the construction of key roads, commenced the long-awaited Government House and Governor’s Lodge projects, and even initiated the Fun City project, among others.
The transformation of Okpoko also deserves special mention, given the deplorable state of the area before this administration.
These achievements amount to an impressive report card.
But let us be frank: security—the cardinal responsibility of any government—remains a dent on the governor’s record.
Despite the launch of “Agụnwụchemba” and “Udo Ga-chi” security operations, kidnappings, killings, and lawlessness persist.
It is against this backdrop that the governor owes the people a clear and honest conversation about his second-term agenda.
It is not enough to relocate to a new Government House and enjoy the comfort of a well-deserved rest.
It is not enough to boast of having no serious challenger in the forthcoming November poll, or to dismiss opponents as mere opportunists seeking financial gain. Nor is it enough to promise to “consolidate on first-term gains.” These are platitudes.
What Ndi Anambra need to hear now is a bold, transparent, people-centred vision for the next four years.
What are his policies on taxes, welfare, and job creation? How does he intend to strengthen security and restore confidence in the sector? What is his vision for human capital development beyond education? And where does he see Ndi Aka in his second term?
There is also a growing fear among the people that a second term for Soludo might translate into harsher tax regimes, aloof governance, and policies that ignore the pains of ordinary traders and artisans. These fears must be addressed now—not after the election.
The governor must tell Ndi Anambra, in clear terms, where he is taking them next.
With other aspirants already declaring interest, only a frank presentation of his vision will allow the people to make an informed choice and hold him accountable if he is returned.
This is the moment for Governor Soludo to speak—not as a technocrat, not as a politician, but as a leader who owes his people a roadmap for the future.
A second term in office is not an automatic extension of the first; it is a renewed contract that requires a fresh mandate from the electorate. There must be a new offer on the table for voters to consider.
