By Our Correspondent
As the Anambra State Governorship election draws near, whispers of discontent against incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s reelection bid are growing louder.
Certain groups are voicing their dissatisfaction, citing various reasons for their disapproval.
Residents of Onitsha and Nnewi are among those who have expressed reluctance to vote for Soludo’s reelection.
The people of Onitsha are still grappling with the removal of the Obi of Onisha as the Chairman of Traditional Rulers and the recent death of one of their sons, Justice Azuka,a legislator, which they feel was poorly handled by the Soludo government.
Similarly, the people of Nnewi are mourning the loss of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah and believe the governor has ulterior motives to deny them the senatorial position in the future.
Other discontented groups include Point of Sale (POS) operators, who feel overtaxed, and business owners struggling under the current economic conditions.
Loyalists of former Governor Willie Obiano are also reportedly aggrieved, with some allegedly being offered insignificant appointments to sway their votes.
Members of the Anambra State House of Assembly claim they receive inadequate treatment from the governor’s office, with some stating they haven not received official cars.
Victims of kidnapping and their families seek justice and better security.
Some Obidients remain bitter about the governor’s past utterances against Peter Obi, while some civil servants are frustrated with delayed promotions and unpaid gratuities.
Traditional worshippers, native doctors, and their adherents are also dissatisfied.
With 20 years passing since APGA took office, some believe it is time for a change, citing the need for fresh perspective and leadership.
Paul Chukwuma, the Young Progressive Party’s (YPP) governorship candidate, describes Soludo as a “Maximum Emperor” with draconian tendencies who sees himself as an island, impervious to opposing views.
Chukwuma cautions that Soludo’s re-election would unveil his true nature, hinting that the governor’s current demeanor is a strategy to secure votes.
Chukwuma questions the relevance of Soludo’s achievements, such as the Government House construction, asking, “Why celebrate a project 98% of the people can’t access?” and “Does the governor live on the street that he would spend billions on such an edifice while most people languish in poverty?”
Chukwuma condemns Soludo’s Ndi Aka Odo militia, describing them as an unsuitable way to engage youth.
He dismisses allegations of working for Soludo’s interest as “baldderdash,” stating he is in the race to give Soludo a tough contest and win.
“I’m the only person in this race with Soludo, and he knows it. He’s working tirelessly to stop me, but the people are with us,” Chukwuma said.
As the election approaches, these whispers of discontent may grow louder, potentially influencing the outcome.
