Paragraph 1: Addressing False Allegations and Misinformation
Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has unequivocally refuted accusations of consulting a native doctor for re-election purposes. Recent online reports and manipulated video clips have falsely portrayed the governor as seeking supernatural assistance for his 2025 gubernatorial bid. These claims, disseminated across social media platforms, misrepresent a routine government meeting with local content creators as a clandestine consultation with a traditional healer. The governor’s office has issued a strong rebuttal, denouncing these allegations as entirely fabricated and intended to mislead the public.
Paragraph 2: Clarifying the Context of the Video Clip
The controversial video clip, the centerpiece of this misinformation campaign, captures a moment from an official government meeting designed to foster collaboration with Anambra’s creative industry. Organized by the Special Senior Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Mazi Ejimofor Opara, the session aimed to strengthen partnerships and support local talent. During this interactive gathering, content creators were encouraged to showcase their skills, voice their concerns, and engage in open dialogue with the governor and other officials. One creator presented a skit, a common form of comedic expression in Nigerian entertainment, featuring a native doctor character. This performance, presented in a lighthearted, theatrical context, was misconstrued as a genuine consultation, forming the basis of the false narrative.
Paragraph 3: Emphasizing Commitment to Anambra’s Creative Economy
The governor’s office has expressed deep disappointment at the deliberate manipulation of this event. Critics and political rivals have seized upon an innocent artistic performance to fabricate a malicious narrative, distorting the true purpose of the meeting. Governor Soludo’s focus remains firmly on fostering Anambra’s creative economy, viewing it as a crucial component of the state’s economic diversification strategy. Rather than engaging in the alleged superstitious practices, the governor’s efforts are directed towards supporting local talent and promoting the creative sector as a vital driver of economic growth and development.
Paragraph 4: Highlighting Investments in Creative Infrastructure
The government’s commitment to the creative industry is evidenced by strategic investments and projects. The recently inaugurated Solution Fun City project is a prime example of this commitment, representing a tangible investment in recreational and entertainment infrastructure. This initiative underscores the governor’s focus on providing opportunities for creative expression and entertainment within the state. Such investments are aimed at bolstering the creative sector and contributing to the overall economic prosperity of Anambra. This approach stands in stark contrast to the fabricated narrative of relying on traditional practices for political gain.
Paragraph 5: Underscoring Confidence in Public Support Based on Performance
Governor Soludo’s administration asserts that his re-election aspirations are grounded in his performance and his commitment to delivering tangible benefits to the people of Anambra. The “Solution Agenda,” a cornerstone of his governance philosophy, focuses on transforming the state into a livable and prosperous homeland. The governor expresses confidence in the support of the Anambra people, believing that his track record of impactful governance will resonate with the electorate and serve as the foundation for his re-election campaign. This confidence negates the need for any alleged superstitious practices.
Paragraph 6: Calling for Responsible Information Consumption and Verification
In response to the spread of misinformation, Governor Soludo has called upon the people of Anambra, media outlets, and social media users to exercise caution and verify information before sharing it. The proliferation of false narratives underscores the importance of responsible media consumption and critical thinking. The governor urges the public to reject deliberately misleading stories and engage in constructive dialogue based on factual information. He remains committed to serving the people of Anambra and will not be deterred by the tactics of political opponents seeking to undermine his work through the spread of misinformation.
