From Godmother to Firebrand? The Rising Heat in Anambra political clime

By lFEANYI NDUKWE (SAINT), AWKA

Anambra State has always prided itself on integrity, discipline, harmony and leadership that inspires. Under Governor Charles Soludo, much has been delivered; roads repaired, health initiatives launched, communities transformed and a whole lots of unprecedented projects.

However, recent tensions and sharp public exchanges have stirred questions like, is silence golden? Or does speaking out risk everything?

Since taking office, Prof. Charles Soludo has pushed forward bold infrastructure projects across Anambra. Over 300 km of roads are being rehabilitated or built, including once-neglected links such as Amansea–Ufuma and Ogidi–Nnewi. The Ekwulobia flyover and large-scale government utilities like the Three‑Arm Zone Government House are in progress.

Alongside these landmarks, Dr Nonye Soludo has carved out her own space. Her “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo” initiative has become more than a program, it’s a movement. It promotes preventive healthcare, nutrition, exercise, cancer awareness, women’s empowerment and child welfare.

Her Healthy Living Garden & Exhibition Garden programmes now span all 21 local government areas in Anambra. They teach organic farming, supply fresh produce, and serve as education hubs about nutrition and wellness

However, everything hasn’t been smooth. Soludo’s administration has raised eyebrows with sharp rhetoric. Some prominent personalities for instance Rev. Fr. Obumma (Ebube Mmunso), Senator Uche Ekwunife, among others have been publicly labeled as “enemies of the state” in heated statements.

These remarks have unsettled many, triggering debate about humility, decorum, and the boundary between political strategy and personal attack.

When Uche Ekwunife responded to what she considered “constant embarrassment” by the governor, the response from the First Lady, once praised widely, drew controversy. The once gentle public persona of Dr Nonye Soludo seemed to shift, and onlookers began to see a fiercer edge.

People are asking: ls this a necessary hand of politics? Or is it a departure from the dignified leadership Anambra has long valued?

Under Peter Obi’s administration, for example, the First Lady was rarely heard fighting perceived opposition in public. Restraint was seen as a strength, even by those who disagreed.

Today, many in Anambra expect leadership not just in megaprojects, but in example: civility, balance, and restraint even in disagreement.

But when public figures cross certain rhetorical lines, the risk is that the accolades begin to fade under the harsh light of criticism.

Silence can sometimes preserve dignity. At other times, speaking up is essential. What matters is how it’s done. Personally, Dr Nonye Soludo failed in her brute style of response.

For the First Lady, Dr Nonye Soludo, more focus on impact and less on rebuttal might maintain her hard‑earned reputation.

Anambra deserves leaders who build roads, secure health, enable education and lead with graceful strength. It’s possible for someone to remain a moral compass even while pushing back in politics.

On that note, IKUKUOMA/IYOM candidacy for Governor and Deputy Governor is the key to lasting impact and GREATER ANAMBRA.

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