Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, was sworn in today for his second term. The event was held at the Dr Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital, and was attended by a diverse group of dignitaries from within and outside the state.
The governor reached the venue of the inauguration in the company of top dignitaries, such as the Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Kashim Shettima, and former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, among others.
The ceremony was also attended by the following elder statesmen: former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and prominent traditional ruler, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
At precisely 11:50 am, Soludo took the oath of allegiance and proceeded to the oath of office, which took approximately five minutes.
Dr Nonye Soludo accompanied her husband as he took oaths. The governor proceeded to sign the oaths before the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Onochie Anyachebelu at 11:55am amidst applause.
The ceremony signalled the start of another four-year administration that would terminate in 2030.
During the acceptance speech, Soludo reviewed his previous term, stating that his first four years were dedicated to establishing a solid foundation and that Anambra has regained its edge following his efforts to develop infrastructure and address security challenges and also chase away ritualists and other native doctors who promoted wealth without work.
Reflecting on his first inauguration, Soludo stated that his administration immediately began work at Okpoko, Nigeria's largest urban slum, as part of his sincere commitment to meet the expectations of the people and make them proud.
The governor noted that barely 3 years in office, his administration delivered over 90 per cent of its campaign promises. He highlighted several major achievements, such as the Ekwulobia flyover and the new government house, which were not among his campaign promises. He expressed pride in the fact that the people of Anambra have nicknamed him ‘Oluatuegwu’, meaning –the man who does not fear work.