Emmanuel Clement
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming Awka into a modern and thriving capital city, while calling on residents and stakeholders to unite for peace and progress.
The Governor made the remarks during a meeting with members of the Ozo Awka Society led by Ozo Sir Chukwujekwu Eze, where he stressed that the state government remains deliberate in positioning Awka as a major destination in the Southeast.
Soludo noted that his administration had already taken bold steps toward developing the capital city, including the construction of a new Government House and Lodge, which he described as ending a 34-year absence of befitting government infrastructure in the state capital.
According to him, projects such as the Light House complex and the Solution Fun City were designed to redefine Awka’s status and attract economic and social activities to the city.
The Governor also addressed the lingering traditional leadership crisis in the community, saying the government could not ignore disputes capable of threatening peace and stability.
Referring to the controversy involving Chief Austine Ndigwe, Soludo maintained that the state’s Commission of Enquiry established that Obi Gibson Nwosu was never dethroned and that Ndigwe was not legally enthroned.
He warned that the state’s traditional rulers law does not recognize multiple traditional rulers in one community, stressing that anyone parading himself contrary to the law risks legal consequences.
Soludo further explained that the crisis was linked to disagreements over burial rites and zoning arrangements, adding that Awka’s constitution clearly provides that Nkwelle village should produce the next traditional ruler under the existing rotation system.
Calling on titleholders and community leaders to rise above personal interests, the Governor urged them to embrace dialogue and help restore unity in the town.
He cited the successful resolution of a long-standing leadership crisis in his hometown of Isuofia as proof that peace is achievable through collective effort.
The Governor also encouraged the people of Awka to build a befitting central palace for the Eze Uzu Awka, similar to notable royal palaces in other historic cities, promising government support toward completing the project within one year.
Ahead of the upcoming Traditional Imo Awka festival, Soludo advised the community to agree on a new date, explaining that the proposed May 23, 2026 date clashes with another major state event that would require heavy security deployment.
“Government will bring law and order, but Awka people will bring lasting peace,” the Governor stated, while urging the community to harness its enormous potential and reclaim its pride of place.
Responding on behalf of the society, Ozo Sir Chukwujekwu Eze assured the Governor that members would consult widely and communicate their position to the government, particularly regarding the proposed adjustment of the festival date.
Top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, Chief of Staff Dr. Ben Nwankwo, Attorney General Barr. Tobechukwu Nweke (SAN), and other community stakeholders, were present at the meeting.