A lawyer, Mr. Victor Akazuo Nwakasi, has commended the Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for taking a bold step towards the conduct of local government election as he promised during campaign.
Nwakasi who was reacting to the release of 2024 local government council election timetable/schedule of activities by Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC) said Governor Soludo’s action “is a demonstration of his attitude towards the promotion and adherence to the rule of law and inclusive governance.”
He further commended the Anambra State House of Assembly and Executive for prompt review of the State Electoral Commission law and the quick constitution of the ANSIEC board by the governor.
According to him, the move showed massive legislative support and cooperation for good governance.
Nwakasi who stated that it was a priority legislative action that is people oriented stated that any party or indidivual that sees the plan to hold the local government election in Anambra State in any perspective than democracy building is not ready and has never been ready for political participation.
“The call for local government elections in Anambra State at this time is another testimony to Governor Soludo’s exemplary character as a leader” he stated. “It deserves all commendations. Anambra is in good hands, indeed.”
He stressed the need for political leaders and players in the state to seize the initiative to drive democratic processes down to the grassroots.
According to him, Nigeria’s democracy would fare better when political parties and players focus their attention to originality of ideology, sustainability and delivery of democratic dividends to the people rather than fending for themselves and their cronies.
“That’s what APGA has been able to do in Anambra State, just like APC and PDP in other states,” he asserted.
On the proposed council poll, Nwakasi said: “Governor Soludo has always maintained that he would organize local government elections at the right time. Those who know his antecedents believed he would do what he said.
“As if the entire Nigeria was listening, the Attorney General of the Federation went to court on behalf of the Federal Government on financial autonomy for LGA amongst other reliefs that were sought.
“There is now a Supreme Court judgment ordering for financial autonomy for local councils, amongst other reliefs. Eventually, the election will galvanize human resources at grassroot levels and arouse the consciousness of those who are willing to serve their communities.
“The governor has done his part, let Anambra people embrace and repay the governor for the selfless action by participating in the process freely and fairly. It is for the good of all.”
