Governor Charles Soludo’s recent comments, suggesting that research should be conducted to understand why young people are leaving the church for traditional religions, have sparked criticism from Valentine Ozigbo, a prominent political figure in the state. In a strongly-worded response, Ozigbo described the governor’s remarks as a “staggering deflection of responsibility,” emphasizing that such an approach only highlights Soludo’s detachment from the real issues facing Anambra.
Ozigbo wrote on his social media page, “If governance is proving too challenging, perhaps it’s time to grant him his wish. Leadership demands practical solutions, not dissertations. Your Excellency, if governance is proving too challenging, the classroom eagerly awaits your return next year.”
He criticized Soludo for shifting blame onto religious institutions instead of addressing the real root causes of the insecurity in the state. According to Ozigbo, the failure of leadership and the breakdown of the family unit are at the heart of the problem, and both leaders and citizens must take responsibility.
“The crux of the matter is the failure of leadership, not religious institutions,” Ozigbo added, pointing out that as governor, Soludo must take ownership of the worsening security situation in Anambra.
The state has witnessed an alarming rise in kidnappings for ransom, which now accounts for nearly 98% of the reported insecurity cases. Ozigbo questioned whether this was due to incompetence or a calculated political strategy tied to Soludo’s possible aspirations for higher office, such as the presidency for an Igbo candidate.
Ozigbo also criticized the administration for its failure to utilize mobile telecommunications effectively, which could have been instrumental in dismantling criminal networks. “A serious government would use every tool available to protect its people,” he stated.
Calling for urgent and practical leadership, Ozigbo concluded, “Anambra deserves leadership that prioritizes action over rhetoric, practical solutions over academic theories.”
This latest critique adds to the growing calls for Governor Soludo to step up and address the state’s worsening security crisis with tangible, effective governance.
