Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has called on the Igbo people to deepen their participation in national politics, insisting that the future development of the South-East depends on building strategic alliances across Nigeria rather than remaining on the political sidelines.
Speaking during his inauguration for a second term in office, Soludo stressed that Ndigbo and Nigeria are mutually dependent, arguing that the region’s economic and political interests are closely tied to the stability and progress of the country as a whole. He urged the South-East to embrace a broader national outlook and pursue what he described as coalition politics for development.
According to the governor, millions of Igbo people live and conduct business in different parts of Nigeria, while a significant percentage of their investments and assets are spread across the country and beyond. For this reason, he said, the region must continue to engage constructively with the Nigerian project while advocating for equity, justice, and inclusion through democratic means.
Soludo argued that political relevance in a democracy is achieved through organisation, negotiation, and the effective use of voting power. He urged Ndigbo to leverage their electoral strength and work with like-minded groups nationwide to push for a fairer federation where all citizens have equal opportunities regardless of ethnicity, religion, or region.
The governor also called for a new conversation about the future of the South-East, saying the region needs healing, renewed confidence, and a practical development agenda capable of addressing longstanding concerns about infrastructure, economic growth, and political representation. He maintained that lamentations alone would not solve the challenges facing the region.
Addressing issues related to agitation and separatist sentiments, Soludo reiterated his position that violence and armed struggle cannot deliver sustainable solutions. He urged young people in the South-East to participate actively in national institutions, including the military, police, and public service, rather than isolating themselves from the country’s affairs.
The governor further advocated a deliberate national effort to accelerate the development of the South-East through improved infrastructure, investment, and economic opportunities. He argued that stronger collaboration between the region and other parts of Nigeria would create a pathway for prosperity and strengthen national unity.
His remarks have sparked fresh discussions about the future of Igbo politics, regional integration, and the place of the South-East within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections.
The comments come at a time when debates over restructuring, inclusion, regional development, and national cohesion continue to dominate political discourse across the country, with many stakeholders calling for renewed efforts to strengthen unity while addressing longstanding grievances.
