EDITORIAL: Soludo’s Brewery Comment: A Professor’s Lapse in Judgment -History Beckons

By Tony Okafor

Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s recent remark during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s one-day visit to Anambra State has left many scratching their heads in dismay.

By stating that the last presidential visit to Anambra State was in 2012 to commission a brewery and private enterprise, Soludo aimed to contrast it with President Tinubu’s visit to commission projects he claims are better.

The governor’s comment, intended to tout his administration’s achievements, took a cheap jab at his predecessor, undermining the dignity of the office he holds.

However, this statement was unnecessary and unbefitting of a professor of economics.

Government is a continuum, and such petty remarks only serve to undermine progress that transcends administrations.

Ironically, Soludo’s jab reveals a lack of understanding of economic principles he should be well-versed in.

Commissioning productive outfits like industries, which can employ people and drive economic growth, is far more beneficial than inaugurating social projects with limited impact.

The 2012 presidential visit likely had a more lasting impact on Anambra’s economy and citizens’ lives.

Moreover, Soludo’s statement backfired. The New Government House President Tinubu commissioned was not built by his administration stricto sensu ; it’s a project that has been ongoing for nearly three decades.

Besides, the New Government House commissioned by President Tinubu is a Commonwealth building that over 90 percent of Ndi Anambra would not have access to in their lifetime.

This context makes the governor’s remark seem more like a desperate attempt to claim credit than a genuine celebration of progress.

The “Solution Fun City” project, which Soludo prides himself on, raises questions about the role of government in such ventures.

In states like Lagos, similar projects are driven by the private sector, freeing up government resources for critical infrastructure and public services. This approach has contributed to Lagos’ lead over other states.

Soludo’s comment was a lapse in judgment, unworthy of his office and academic background.

As a professor of economics, he should prioritize productive investments that benefit the masses over vanity projects.

Anambra State deserves progressive thinking, focused on tangible development rather than petty politicking.