Governor Chukwuma Soludo returned to his professional roots, few days ago, with an emotional visit to the palace of Eze Iweka III of Obosi Kingdom, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, who serves as Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council.
The visit to Obosi, which the governor described as “the very cradle of my beginnings,” marked a significant moment in his reelection campaign, with the community organizing a massive endorsement rally and presenting a substantial N50 million campaign donation to support his second term bid.
“Obosi holds a special place in my heart; it’s more than just a town,” Governor Soludo declared during the visit. “The first job I ever earned a paycheck from was right here in Obosi. It’s where I took my initial steps into the world of work and celebrated my first salary. My story cannot be complete without mentioning Obosi.”
The governor’s emotional connection to the ancient town stems from his early career beginnings, when he secured his first paying employment in the commercial hub before rising to national and international prominence as an economist and later as Central Bank Governor.
The visit featured a massive community rally where residents turned out in unprecedented numbers to demonstrate their support for the governor’s reelection ambitions. The overwhelming show of solidarity culminated in the community’s generous donation of N50 million to boost the campaign, reflecting the deep appreciation for the governor’s performance during his first term.
“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the resounding endorsement rally by the people of Obosi, showing their unwavering support for my reelection bid,” Soludo expressed. “I was also humbled by their generous donation of 50 million Naira in support of our campaign. Thank you, Obosi, for believing that the Solution should continue!”
The reference to “the Solution” echoes the governor’s signature “Solution Agenda” policy framework that has guided his administration since taking office in 2022. The agenda has focused on practical governance solutions across security, infrastructure, education, and economic development, earning recognition from various communities across the state.
During the palace ceremony, Eze Iweka III presented the governor with a collection of books he had authored, a gesture that deeply moved Soludo. “As a treasured gift, I received books authored by Eze Iweka, and I will cherish them forever as symbols of my roots,” the governor noted, highlighting the personal significance of maintaining connections to his formative years.
The visit to Obosi represents more than ceremonial politics for Governor Soludo, serving as both a homecoming to his professional birthplace and a strategic campaign engagement in one of Anambra State’s key communities. Obosi, located in Idemili North Local Government Area, has historically been a significant commercial and cultural center in the state.
The substantial financial contribution from the Obosi community signals strong grassroots support for the governor’s reelection aspirations, with residents clearly expressing confidence in his leadership and policy direction. The N50 million donation represents one of the largest single community contributions reported during the early phase of campaign activities.
Eze Iweka III’s hosting of the governor at his palace also carries symbolic weight, given his position as Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council. The endorsement from traditional leadership, combined with the grassroots community support, provides significant political capital for the governor’s campaign strategy.
The governor concluded his remarks with his characteristic optimism about the state’s trajectory, declaring, “May Anambra continue to win!” – a phrase that has become synonymous with his administration’s messaging about progress and development across the state.
The Obosi visit is expected to be followed by similar community engagements across Anambra State as Governor Soludo builds momentum for his reelection campaign, leveraging both his policy achievements and personal connections to various communities throughout the state.
The overwhelming reception in Obosi demonstrates the governor’s ability to maintain strong ties to his roots while executing the duties of high office, a quality that has resonated with many Anambra residents who value leaders who remain connected to their origins and early struggles.
