Professor Obiora Okonkwo, political economist and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, has expressed deep concerns about the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo in Anambra State.
Okonkwo, a former governorship candidate, criticized Soludo’s two and a half years in office, calling the governor an “intellectual narcissist” and asserting that Anambra is “becoming a ghost state” under his administration.
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According to Okonkwo, who chose to remain silent initially to allow the new government time to stabilize, the security situation in Anambra has deteriorated since Soludo took office.
He remarked that insecurity has stifled economic and social life, with many elite and business owners fleeing the state.
“The state has lost almost 60% of its economic capacity,” Okonkwo lamented, adding that businesses, particularly those in the local government areas, are suffering due to increased taxation and insecurity.
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Okonkwo also criticized Soludo’s alleged lack of engagement with critical stakeholders, describing the government’s efforts as largely self-serving.
He accused the governor of focusing more on his political ambitions, including securing a second term, rather than addressing the pressing needs of the people.
On the issue of security, Okonkwo dismissed claims that state governors are powerless, noting that Soludo receives a monthly security vote of around N2 billion, which he claims is not being adequately spent on tackling the worsening security challenges.
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He emphasized that without a secure environment, no meaningful development can take place.
Despite being long-time friends, Okonkwo stressed that his criticisms stem from a sense of responsibility and love for Anambra, not personal animosity.
He expressed concerns about Soludo’s leadership style and urged the governor to focus on creating a legacy that benefits the people, rather than prioritizing his ego.
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Okonkwo further touched on the recent local government elections in Anambra, where the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) had a landslide victory, describing it as a display of the governor’s power but warned that such dominance could invite future political retribution.
As Anambra gears up for another election, Okonkwo left the decision to the people but was clear in his call for Governor Soludo to live up to his promises and prioritize the welfare of the state.
