Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has commended community leaders in Awka for ensuring a peaceful celebration of the annual Imoka festival, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to sustaining security, unity and infrastructural development in the state capital.
Governor Soludo made the remarks during a solidarity visit to the traditional ruler of Awka, Obi Gibson Nwosu, as part of activities marking the annual Imoka cultural festival.
The visit marked a historic moment, as Soludo became the first sitting governor of Anambra State to officially pay homage to the Awka monarch during the traditional celebration.
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Addressing community leaders and stakeholders at the event, the governor declared that peace had returned to Awka and praised residents for supporting efforts aimed at maintaining stability in the capital city.
“Peace has come to reign in Awka. I am a peaceful man,” Soludo stated.
He particularly commended the President General of Awka Town Union, Chief Fred Chinwuba, and members of the Ọzọ Awka title society for ensuring that the festival was celebrated without any security breach.
The governor noted that peace and stable leadership remained essential for sustainable growth and development in the state.
As part of his administration’s development agenda for the capital city, Soludo announced plans to construct a grand central palace in Awka, describing it as a symbol of unity and cultural heritage for future generations.
“Awka deserves a central palace that generations unborn will use. We will repair Awka. Ndị Awka, let us get it done. We will lead the way, but it requires partnership with you,” he said.
Governor Soludo also stressed the need for unity in the community, noting that division in traditional leadership was contrary to Igbo cultural values.
“In Igbo land, it is a taboo to have two kings in the same community,” he said.
Peaceful Coexistence
On religious tolerance, the governor said his administration remained committed to protecting freedom of worship and promoting peaceful coexistence among adherents of different faiths.
“There is freedom of worship and religion. Traditionalists should do theirs, while Christians celebrate theirs,” Soludo stated.
Earlier, the President General of Awka Town Union, Chief Fred Chinwuba, expressed appreciation to the governor for his continued support and developmental projects in the capital city.
Also speaking was the Traditional Prime Minister of Awka, Engr. Benjamin Okoye commended the governor for his peace initiatives and infrastructural strides across Anambra State, pledging the continued support of the Awka community to the administration.
