By Felix Igboanugo
In a groundbreaking move that has captured the attention of Anambra State residents and beyond, the governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Chukuwma Soludo on November 25, led some top government functionaries to an extraordinary visit to the Olumabanasa Community in Anambra West Local Government Area.
The visit marks the beginning of total transformation of the community and it is the first time in the history of the state that a sitting governor made
effort to personally connect with the people of Olumabanasa.
It’s on record that no governor of the State, either old or new of Anambra State had ever visited these forgotten, abandoned, marginalised and almost forsaken inland.
Addressing a massive crowd that assembled to welcome him shortly after alighting from the boat, Governor Charles Chukuwma Soludo said, he was in Olumabanasa communities to bring message of hope, peace, progress and total transformation to the inland which had been completely abandoned by successive governments. He assured them that his administration has come to restore hope.
At Allah n’Onugwa community, after seeing the wanton destruction of the community, Governor Soludo expressed deep concern for the plight of ndi Allah n’Onugwa and assured them of his commitment to facilitating their safe return to their ancestral home.
He acknowledged the pain caused by conflicts and reiterated his administration’s dedication to ensuring lasting peace and harmonious coexistence among all communities in the state.
Mr. Governor who emphasized the importance of a peaceful and secure environment for development and progress, noted that without peace, sustainable development would be unachievable.
He encouraged community leaders and residents to embrace dialogue, forgiveness and reconciliation as the foundation for healing and rebuilding of their shattered lives.
Governor Charles Chukuwma Soludo outlined a comprehensive action plan to facilitate the process of bringing back the displaced communities to their rightful homes.
The plan includes rigorous security measures to ensure the safety and protection of the returning residents, construction of community hall, schools, healthcare centers, solar powered water borehole facilities, solar lights etc.
It is imperative to note that Governor Soludo’s visit holds significant promise for Allah n’Onugwa and Odekpe community including other communities across Anambra State. This is because it is a testament to the state government’s dedication to fostering peace, stability, and the overall well-being of its citizens.
By prioritizing the safe return and rehabilitation of displaced communities of Allah n’Onugwa, Governor Soludo did not only seek to heal the wounds of the past but also aims to build a more prosperous future, one that is marked by unity and progress.
At Igbedor, after listening to various needs as listed by various community leaders in Olumbanasa, Governor Soludo acknowledged the historical neglect that the community had endured over the years. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to correcting past neglect and ensuring that every corner and cranny of Anambra State receives equitable development and attention.
In his address, Transition Committee Chairman, Mr. Felix Ikechi thanked Governor Charles for his unwavering support and keen interest in the development of Anambra West.
Ikechi highlighted the collaborative efforts between the local government and the state government, which have resulted in notable improvements in infrastructure, healthcare facilities, water bornehole facilities, education, etc.
Mr. Governor’s visit was graced with an expression of gratitude by ndi Olumabanasa Community who came out in their numbers with various dancing group and different masquerades, because they believed that this signals a turning point in their journey towards progress and development.
They commended the Governor’s proactive approach and commitment to addressing the challenges faced by remote communities
Some of the highlights of the event include the signing of peace accord by Allah n’Onugwa and Odekpe community witnessed by the Governor himself. It signal an end to acrimony that will usher in togetherness, peace, and progress to Olumabanasa community in Anambra West LGA.
Governor’s entourage include, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi; Hon. Patrick Obalum Udoba Ezego Anam, the member representating Anambra West in the State House; Chief Protocol to the Governor, Hon. Chinedu Nwoye (Glamour); Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Tonycollins Nwabunwanne; Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Engr Julius Chukwuemeka.
Others include Commissioner for Transportation, Barr. Patricia Igwebuike; Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu; traditional rulers, religious bodies, Presidents General, liaison officers, party stakeholders, among others.
(@) Ikechi Media.
