On Friday, Victor Oye, a former national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), commended Prof. Charles Soludo, the governor of Anambra State, at a press conference in Abuja, labeling him the best-performing governor in Nigeria. His praise followed the governor’s recent decision to exempt low-income residents from certain taxes, specifically those with business capital below N100,000. Oye highlighted the significance of this move, coupled with Soludo’s administration’s commitment to paying a new minimum wage of N70,000, timely completion of projects, and improved infrastructure, as key indicators of Soludo’s superior performance compared to other governors across the nation. Oye urged support for Soludo’s reelection in 2025, asserting that these initiatives exemplify effective governance.
Oye emphasized Anambra’s financial stability under Soludo’s leadership, contrasting it with other states that struggle with heavy debts. He reiterated his belief that the achievements made under Soludo’s governance, such as road constructions in previously neglected localities and improvements in communities like Okpoko, set Anambra apart as a model of effective administration. The former APC chairman specifically mentioned that some local governments were neglected before Soludo took office, leading to transformative developments. His testimony underscores not only the infrastructural progress but also the enhanced living conditions for the residents, which he referred to in an optimistic light, comparing Okpoko’s transformation to Dubai.
In a related development, the National Chairman of the APGA, Sly Ezeokenwa, celebrated a recent Supreme Court ruling that reaffirmed his leadership amid a protracted dispute within the party. The court ruled unanimously in favor of Ezeokenwa, dismissing claims made by Edozie Njoku regarding the party’s chairmanship. Ezeokenwa characterized this judgment as a victory for both APGA and the broader democratic principles of Nigeria, emphasizing that it resolved a critical issue that had jeopardized party unity.
Ezeokenwa urged reconciliation among all factions within the party following the court’s decision. He called on members to set aside their differences and work collaboratively for the betterment of the party. This inclusive approach was designed to heal any divisions spawned by the leadership struggle and to position APGA as a united front moving forward. Ezeokenwa described the Supreme Court ruling not just as a personal victory but as a triumph for democratic integrity, urging unity among all members, regardless of past grievances.
In his address, Ezeokenwa focused on the importance of collective purpose and inclusiveness, stressing that the priority for APGA is now reconciliation and harmonization of efforts among party members. By declaring “no victor, no vanquished,” he sought to eliminate a sense of rivalry and promote a spirit of collaboration that could enhance the party’s image and efficiency in addressing the needs of its constituents. His call for unity is indicative of a strategic move to consolidate support ahead of upcoming political contests, including the critical 2025 elections.
The discussions at both the press conference and in Ezeokenwa’s address signify a crucial period for APGA and its leadership structure. The praise directed towards Soludo’s administration reflects a recognition of effective governance, while the recent Supreme Court ruling marks a pivotal moment in stabilizing party leadership. These developments not only serve internal party dynamics but also have broader implications for political alignments in Anambra and Nigeria as a whole, as stakeholders prepare for future electoral contests amid increasing public scrutiny of governance and party integrity.
