Ozigbo accuses Soludo of using local government funds to run his political structure

Former governorship candidate in Anambra State and chieftain of Labour Party (LP), Mr Valentine Ozigbo has accused Governor Chukwuma Soludo of using funds accruing to local government councils to run his political structure.

Ozigbo in a statement he shared on his verified X handle condemned the governor for not conducting local government election, despite openly pledging to do so during the 2021 electioneering in the state.

He said: “Contrary to section 7(1) of the 1999 constitution, Prof. Soludo has opted to recruit his cronies and political foot soldiers to administer the local government areas.

“This allows him to utilise funds allocated to these areas to support his political structures believing that will help him secure his re-election.

“During his inaugural speech, the Governor of Anambra, Prof. Soludo, promised to conduct local government elections within two years. He had even pledged to do so immediately during his campaign.

“However, after two years, he has neither conducted any local government elections nor taken any steps to prepare for them.”

Ozigbo said that by not conducting the elections, Soludo has failed Anambra state.

“There are three levels of government. If presidents don’t appoint transition governors, why do governors feel they can appoint transition LG chairmen and change them at will? And if promises have been made, why break them?

“A proper LG election is crucial to strengthen democracy and allow people at the grassroots to choose their leaders. In turn, the masses will be able to hold the elected accountable.

“I therefore believe that Gov Soludo should be reminded that he has failed to live up to set expectations and social contract with Ndi Anambra.”