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IT IS WELL WITH ‘ODERA’: A TRIBUTE TO THE LATE DR. CHINWOKE MBADINUJU

*NEWS COMMENTARY:*

By Christian ABURIME :

Today, the Government and people of Anambra State begin the process of bidding a final farewell to a great son of Anambra State.

This is also a tribute to celebrate his life and achievements as a former Governor who left an indelible mark on the history of our beloved state.

This is in memory of no other than the Late Dr. Chinwoke Clement Mbadinuju, fondly known as Odera.

Dr. Mbadinuju was a man of many facets – an academic, a journalist, a politician, and above all, a compassionate leader.

Born in the serene town of Uli, Ihiala Local Government area of Anambra State in 1945, Odera’s life was one of profound destiny, marked by his uncommon belief in education and service to humanity.

He embarked on his educational journey at Mgbidi Primary School, where his brilliance and academic prowess shone through. His parents, recognizing his potential, encouraged him to pursue a career in teaching, sending him to Bishop Lasbrey College in Irete, Owerri.

Upon completing his studies, he returned to his alma mater as a teacher, inspiring countless young minds.

Odera’s thirst for knowledge led him to the United States, where he initially pursued a degree in Music at the State University of New York. However, his true calling lay in the realm of government and politics, and he subsequently switched his studies to Ohio University, where he earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Government and International Law.

His academic achievements opened doors to various teaching positions at esteemed institutions like State University of New York, Ohio State University, and Cornell University. But it was his love for his homeland that drew him back to Nigeria, where he embarked on a distinguished career in journalism.

Odera’s journalistic journey began as a correspondent for Times International, where his sharp intellect and incisive writing earned him recognition. He rose through the ranks, becoming the Editor of Times International and later the General Manager and Chief Executive of Daily Star, the then Enugu State government’s daily publication.

His foray into politics began with an appointment as Special Assistant (Political) to the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under President Shehu Shagari. After the 1983 coup, Odera returned to his legal practice in Onitsha, all the while dedicating himself to his Christian faith and community service.

In 1998, Odera’s political aspirations led him to join the Peoples Democratic Party, where he emerged as the party’s governorship candidate in Anambra State.

His campaign focused on restoring stability and prosperity to Anambra State, a state grappling with numerous challenges at the time.

In 1999, Odera assumed office as the Governor of Anambra State, marking a pivotal moment in his life and the history of the state. Despite the daunting challenges he faced, Odera remained steadfast in his commitment to serving his people.

With his characteristic intelligence, equanimity in the face of extreme provocations, and Christian faith in God, Odera embarked on a mission to transform Anambra State.

Among his several achievements, he established the Anambra Vigilante Services, Dora Akunyili Centre, the Alex Ekwueme Square, the New House of Assembly, and the Odumegwu Ojukwu University.

He also implemented a scholarship scheme for secondary schools, constructed over 140 kilometers of roads, provided boreholes in secondary schools, and established the Orient Oil Ltd.

Odera’s legacy extends beyond his tangible achievements. He was a man of integrity, humility, and compassion, always putting the needs of his people first. He instilled hope and a sense of unity in a state yearning for stability.

Although Odera’s tenure as Governor came to an end without a secure term, his contributions to Anambra State remained profound. He continued to serve his country, joining the All Progressives Congress and serving on its Board of Trustees until his passing away in April 2023 at the National Hospital, Abuja.

A devoted family man, Odera was survived by his wife, Mrs. Nnene Mbadinuju, and five children. Today, as we bid farewell to Dr. Chinwoke Mbadinuju, we remember not just a politician, but a leader who embodied the true spirit of service. He was a beacon of hope, a man of unwavering principles, and a true patriot.

No doubt, Odera’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of the good people of Anambra State. His steadfast commitment to our people, his intelligence, and his unwavering faith will continue to inspire generations to come.

As he would usually say, it shall be well with Anambra State.

May his soul find eternal rest in the bosom of the Lord.

S.E. ANCOPSS EULOGIZES GOV. SOLUDO’S ACHIEVEMENTS IN EDUATION

The South East Zone of the All Nigerian Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools ANCOPSS, has praised Governor Chukwuma Soludo for the giant strides recorded by his administration in the education sector.

Speaking at the 2023 South East Mandatory Professional Training program holding at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Center Awka, the South East President of ANCOPSS, Sir Mathew Ikechukwu Uzuegbu stated that Anambra State has always played a leading role in Education. He implored other Governors of the South East zone to prioritize infrastructure and human development in public schools.

Declaring open the 2023 South East ANCOPSS mandatory professional training, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Ngozi Chuma-Udeh stated that Governor Soludo’s passion for education has remained unparalleled. This was demonstrated immediately on his assumption of office by the employment of five thousand teachers, while activities have commenced for employment of additional three thousand teachers.

Commissioner Chuma-Udeh who was represented by the Director of Schools, Mrs Ifeoma Agbaizu, further stated that Principals occupy highly placed position in Governor Soludo’s education agenda, as their roles in actualizing the education agenda of the State cannot be underestimated.

While assuring the South East Principals of enjoyable stay in Anambra State, the Education Commissioner charged them to maximize the benefits of the program for the progress of education.

Earlier, the Anambra State President of ANCOPSS, Mr Jovita Arazu had listed the achievements of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in his drive to make education an equalizer.

Nnaemeka Egwuonwu Public Relations Officer Anambra State Ministry of Education

ANAMBRA POLICE SMASH DEATH THREAT SYNDICATES, ARREST SUSPECTS

Police in Ozubulu and Umunze towns in Anambra State have smashed two deadly syndicates extorting money from unsuspecting members of the public via deadly threats.

At Umunze, Orumba South LGA Headquarters two suspects were nabbed after painstaking investigation.

The suspects had sent text messages to their victim identifying themselves as members of ESN and demanding that he paid them a huge sum or else he and his daughter would be kidnapped and killed.

Both suspects are now cooling their feet in detention and would be arraigned in court soon.

In a similar development the Police at Ozubulu, Headquarters of Ekwusigo LGA arrested one male suspect who used two different lines to issue deadly threats to a businessman. He claimed to be an ESN Commander and ordered his victim to pay up or be killed.

Meticulous investigation employing technology and human assets led detectives to his hideout where he was arrested and both sims recovered. He was taken into custody and is to be arraigned in court.

The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Police Command, CP Aderemi Adeoye, has commended both DPOs for their diligence and painstaking effort which led to unravelling the identities of the crime suspects and apprehending them.

He assured that Command Headquarters will continue to motivate its personnel across the State for optimum performance.

*DSP Tochukwu Ikenga*

Police Public Relations Officer,

Anambra State Police Command,

Awka.

15th November, 2023.

ANAMBRA WEST COUNCIL CHAIRMAN RECEIVES INOMA ELECTED TRADITIONAL RULER

By Felix Igboanugo :

In a remarkable display of unity and respect for cultural institution, the Transition Committee Chairman of Anambra West Local Government Area, Mr. Felix Ikechi has received the newly elected Traditional Ruler of Inoma community, HRH Igwe Sylvanus Ndukwe Onyekwe.

Receiveing the Traditional ruler In a special ceremony at the Local Council’s sub office Umueze Anam, Mr. Ikechi reiterated Government’s commitment in partnering with traditional institutions geared towards entrusting peace and unity within the local council.

He congratulated the traditional ruler for being the choice of his people, having gone through the election process in accordance with the constitution, customs, and traditions of Inoma community, leading to his ascension on the throne.

The Anambra West chairman applauded Governor Chukuwma Soludo for creating the enabling environment for communities to choose their leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration between the government and traditional institutions, recognizing their valuable roles in community development and preserving cultural heritage.

Mr. Ikechi appealed to the newly elected Inoma monarch to be father of all, as he expects peace, fairness, justice and love in his Community and Anambra West in general.

In his response, the Igwe elect expressed his gratitude to God, Inoma community and Government of Anambra State for the opportunity to serve in such capacity, and pledged his commitment towards the promotion of peace, progress, and cultural preservation in Inoma and Anambra West in particular.

He acknowledged the support of his people and promised to work closely with the local government to address the community’s needs and challenges.

The presentation of the newly elected traditional ruler of Inoma to the Anambra West LGA, signifies a new chapter in the community’s history. And symbolizes the unity between tradition and governance, highlighting the significance of working together to uplift the lives of the people and ensure the progress of the entire Anambra West.

Felix is a Staff Of The State Ministry Of Information.

CLO Commiserates With Gov Soludo on His Father’s Demise

By Juliana Nwachukwu :

The Civil Liberty Organization (CLO), Anambra State Branch has commiserated with Gov. Chukwuma Soludo over the death of his father, Pa Simeon Nwankwo Soludo on Nov. 6, 2023.

A condolence message issued to newsmen in Awka was endorsed by Mr. Vincent Ezekwueme, Chairman and Mr Chidi Mbah, Secretary respectively.

The organization conveyed their condolences and sympathized with the governor, the Soludo family, Isuofia Community and entire Aguata LG over the irreparable loss.

”We will continue to pray and be with the family at this painful and trying moment.The family and loved ones should take solace for the fact that he lived rewarding, remarkable and outstanding life worthy of commendation and emulation.

“He was a devoted, dedicated and God fearing Christian, caring father, astute patriotic community leader, peace maker and lover of peace.

“Pa Soludo was a strict disciplinarian, selfless, humanitarian and compassionate which he inculcated in his children which has manifested in the life of Gov.Soludo and his siblings.

“To the glory of God Pa Simeon Nwankwo Soludo came, saw and conquered as he lived fulfilled and worthwhile life.”

The Organization prayed for the eternal repose of his gentle and humble soul.

*Juliana Nwachukwu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

IXP in Anambra, Major Leap toward a More Connected, Digitized Society

By Angela Nwanodu :

A promising future lies ahead for the Internet Service Providers (ISPs), Anambra residents, and the broader Tech community in Anambra State.

Can you picture faster internet speeds and improved connectivity across Anambra? Gov. Chukwuma Soludo, a forward-thinking leader, is diligently working alongside a dedicated team to ensure that Technology is Everywhere, and Everything in Anambra bears the mark of technology.

All efforts is aimed at transforming Anambra into a smart, liveable, and prosperous homeland.

Recognizing the pivotal role of technology, particularly high-speed internet access and affordability, Gov. Soludo, took decisive actions early in his administration to accelerate the state’s digital evolution by expanding digital accessibility.

To underscore his unwavering commitment to this goal, he introduced innovative strategies to reverse the state’s tech infrastructure decline, with a central component being the elimination of charges for Right-of-Way (RoW) per linear meter.

The elimination of RoW charges is a significant milestone in Anambra’s journey toward digital inclusivity.

By removing this financial barrier, Gov. Soludo’s administration aimed to attract technology investments, foster innovation, and bridge the digital divide among the people of Anambra State.

However, to reinforce this vision, there’s the need to establish an Internet Exchange Point (IXP) in the state.

An IXP in a place like Anambra can have far-reaching implications for both the local digital ecosystem and the broader community.

These implications include faster internet speeds for end-users in the state, cost savings as ISPs can provide more affordable internet packages, opportunities for local businesses to expand their online presence, enhanced data security, and the development of innovative solutions, job prospects, and a thriving tech ecosystem, ultimately contributing to overall economic growth in the state.

As a result, the Anambra State ICT Agency is reaching out to all Internet Service Providers (ISPs) operating in the state to unite and support the proposed Internet Exchange Point. This exchange point will act as a central hub, bringing together various network operators, higher educational institutions providing internet services, and ISPs.

The plan, according to MD/CEO of Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), Muhammed Rudman, is to explore the possibility of setting up an Internet Exchange Point in Anambra State.

He said; “We, at IXPN want to partner with the state government to see how we can bring about all the key networks operating within the state, the higher educational institutions, and the ISPs to engage with them toward inter-connectivity and promoting the ICT ecosystem within the state.

“Call it, a tripartite collaboration between IXPN, Anambra State Government, and the Service Providers toward establishing an internet exchange point that will provide interconnectivity and reduce the cost of internet access in Anambra State.”

This collaborative initiative is expected to create an environment conducive to cooperation, knowledge sharing, and efficient internet traffic exchange. The Anambra State ICT Agency is delighted to be driving this agenda on behalf of Mr Governor.

*Nwanodu is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

President Tinubu Commiserates With Gov. Soludo Over Father’s Death

By Chukwudi Nwauba :

Nigeria President Bola Tinubu has commiserated with the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Soludo over the death of his father, Pa Simeon Soludo.

President Tinubu, in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, described the late Mr. Soludo as a dignified and charitable family man.

He said that the deceased lived a fruitful life that was exemplified in the achievements, personal quality, and sterling records of his son, Prof. Soludo.

“I pray the Almighty God grant your beloved father eternal rest. He lives through you still, in your sincerity, good works and deeds.”

The president encouraged the governor and the good people of Anambra to take solace in the excellent legacy of the departed nonagenarian.

Late Mr Soludo was 92 at the time of his passage into glory.

He is survived by seven sons; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Anambra West Council Boss Presents Certificates, Cheques to Anambra West Beneficiaries of 1 Youth 2 Skills Initiative Programme

By Felix Igboanugo :

The Transition Committee Chairman of Anambra West Local Government Area, Mr. Felix Ikechi has handed over cheques and certificates to the Anambra West beneficiaries of the just concluded first batch of the 1 youth 2 skills empowerment program of the Governor Chukwuma Soludo administration.

The program which was Initiated by the present administration of Governor Soludo was aimed at lifting thousands of Youths off the streets and engaging them meaningfully in different skills for them to be self reliant and sufficient.

Handing over the cheques and certificate to forty-seven beneficiaries from Anambra West at the local council sub office Umueze Anam, Mr. Ikechi noted that the programme which was aimed at empowering the youths with essential skills for self-sufficiency, would certainly make a significant impact on the lives of the young individuals.

He commended Governor Soludo administration for taking thousands of youths off the streets through the initiative, saying that investing in human capital development remains the greatest of all Investment.

The Anambra West TC Chairman commended the beneficiaries for their determination and commitment in acquiring new skills, which he believed are essential for the socio-economic growth of Anambra State.

He advised them to utilize the rare opportunity to develop their lives, noting that the Governor is poised in making Anambra youths self reliant through various skills, urging them to remain focused, committed and dedicated to become employers of labour in months to come.

Mr.Felix Igboanugo is a staff member of the Ministry Of Information.

VIO Training Exercise in Anambra Focuses on Safety, Competence, Responsibility Too

By Chidinma Ajemba/Ngozika Omenankiti :

The Vehicle Inspection Service Department of the Ministry of Transport Anambra State has conducted a motor ordinance training exercise for the drivers of Transport Company Anambra State (TRACAS) at VIO Computerised Centre, Awka.

In his opening remarks, the Head of Accident Investigation Unit, Vehicle Inspection Service Department, Anambra State Ministry of Transport, Engr. Eze Daniel Onyeka explained that the essence of the exercise was to refresh and retrain drivers on the ethics of driving.

In his words, “Driving is serious business and not all drivers are competent. A competent driver is someone who possesses the knowledge, skills, and attitude to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly.

He noted that competent driving prioritizes safety and responsible behaviour on the road, saying that driving required patience, tolerance, concentration, a good attitude and cordial relationship traits.

He said that a significant cause of accidents on the road is caused by human factors, which includes speeding, distracted driving (such as texting or using a phone), impaired driving (due to alcohol or drugs), reckless behaviour, fatigue, and other forms of negligence.

“One mistake made by a driver can lead to irreversible consequences, drivers must understand the potential consequences of their actions on the road.” Eze concluded.

Reacting, the Head of Operations, Vehicle Inspection Service Department, Engr. Obidoa Chukwueloka urged drivers to change their perception that Vehicle Inspection Service Officers are only fault finders.

“If the police is your friend, then VIO is your brother and we genuinely have the interests of road users at heart.

He noted that VIO’s primary role is to help improve road safety by enforcing laws related to vehicle conditions, licensing, and other regulations.

He pointed out that most drivers do not have valid driving licenses and enjoined them to endeavour to go through the proper channels when obtaining a driver’s license.

Engr Obidoa said that every driver in Anambra is expected to have up-to-date driver’s licenses, insurance, vehicle licenses, and road-worthiness.

The TRACAS drivers were also taught about the Regulatory Trafic Signs which included; prohibitory signs, warning signs, mandatory signs and informative signs while their vehicles were subjected to Computerised Motor Check.

*Chidimma and Ngozika are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State

18,000 Out of 25,000 Formerly Diesel Powered Street Lights Converted to Solar Lights–Commissioner

By Azuka Offor :

The Commissioner for Power and Water Resources, Anambra State, Engr Julius Mmelikam Chukwuemeka has said that out of about 25,000 street lights being previously powered by diesel by the previous administration,18,000 have been converted to solar lights so far by the solution government.

Engr Chukwuemeka made this known while addressing the management of Chukwuemeka Odunmegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) during the inspection of installed solar street lights at the Igbariam Campus of the University.

Mr commissioner said that the conversion from diesel powered to solar powered was in line with Gov. Soludo’s campaign promise to achieve more with less.

He maintained that solar system is not only cost effective but also environment friendly to achieve the solution government’s vision of clean, green and sustainable Anambra State.

He added that aside converting to solar system, new ones are being installed across the state and tasked the university community to take ownership of the street lights as well as other government utilities to prevent vandalisation.

*Azuka Offor is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State