By Pamela Eboh
The Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has called on politicians and candidates of various political parties to take Nigeria’s development as a top priority above personal interest.
The Governor who made the remark when the Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and his Vice, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa paid him a courtesy call at the governor’s lodge in Amawbia noted that in the business of building Nigeria, Anambra and Igboland should be an open place for anyone.
According to him, “Nigeria is bigger than any political party and the business of building the country is bigger than any politician.
“In this business of building Nigeria, Anambra and Igboland should be an open place for anyone.
“Just give us your proposition and tell us how you will fix the country.
“I am very glad you are here to canvass for votes and I believe our people will listen carefully to every word you have to tell them,” Governor Soludo said.
“Our orientation is to have a level playing field for everyone.
“Politics is about development and we want the South East to feel this development,” Soludo noted.
The governor observed that Reconciliation and Reconstruction is what the country is yet to come to terms with.
“The federal highways constructed in the Shagari era are no longer motorable. My administration is already spending few billions on federal roads.
“The bottom line is that we want to change the life of the average citizen.
“Our people are all ears. We pray for you, for Nigeria and wish you the very best of luck.”
In his speech, the PDP Presidential Candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar said that the visit was to pay a courtesy call to Governor Soludo as the APGA Governor in Anambra State.
He explained that his relationship with Soludo is beyond partisan politics but a commitment to undertake reforms in the Nigerian economy.
The PDP Presidential hopeful said, “This is beyond party politics. There should be a consensus on how we move forward and I consider Governor Soludo as a partner in that respect.
“It is my singular respect and honour for him to receive me in the state. In spite of our different political affiliations, there should be some core values we should agree to, towards the development of our country.
“I thank Governor Soludo for going beyond party politics. He didn’t shut the gate against us. We are all partners in our reform agenda as far as Nigeria is concerned.
“The Governor personally told me he was not available in the state but had to find a way back to receive me. I thank him for the opportunity and wish for God’s blessings upon his life and upon Anambra State.”
