Governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, has called on the people of the South-East to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general election, urging them not to “waste” their votes on other candidates.
Soludo made the statement on Tuesday during his second-term inauguration ceremony held at the Dr Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital.
The event attracted top political figures from across the country, including Vice-President Kashim Shettima, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and former President Goodluck Jonathan.
The oath of office and allegiance was administered to Soludo by the Chief Judge of Anambra State, Onochie Anyachebelu, at exactly 11:47 a.m.
Shortly after, the deputy governor, Onyekachukwu Ibezim, also took his oath of office at 11:52 a.m., marking the official start of the administration’s second term.
The ceremony was attended by political leaders, traditional rulers, party supporters, and residents, reflecting the importance of the occasion in the political life of the state.
In his inaugural speech, Soludo made a strong political statement ahead of the 2027 elections. He urged the people of the South-East to align with the current administration at the federal level.
According to him, the region should avoid dividing its votes among different candidates and instead focus on supporting President Tinubu.
“The South-East should not waste its votes,” Soludo said, adding that backing Tinubu would help the region gain more influence and benefits at the national level.
He described Tinubu as a leader with the capacity to transform Nigeria, noting that his administration has already shown signs of progress.
“President Tinubu is a cerebral, courageous and patriotic Nigerian. We trust him to make a major difference for Nigeria and the South-East,” he said.
Soludo also addressed the long-standing issue of an Igbo presidency. Over the years, leaders and groups in the South-East have called for a president of Igbo extraction as part of efforts to promote equity and national unity.
However, the governor suggested that the time may not yet be right for the region to produce the president.
While acknowledging the importance of the aspiration, he said the region must take a strategic approach to national politics.
“The political future of the Igbo is important, but timing is also key,” he said, indicating that supporting Tinubu in 2027 could position the region better for future opportunities.
Beyond national politics, Soludo also used the occasion to call for unity within Anambra State.
He urged political opponents to put aside their differences and work together for the development of the state. According to him, the period of political competition has ended, and the focus should now shift to governance.
“We have finished the contest. Now is the time for governance,” he said.
The governor highlighted the need for collaboration among all stakeholders, including opposition parties, to move the state forward.
In his remarks, Vice-President Kashim Shettima praised Soludo for his leadership style and vision.
He described the governor as a leader guided by ideas and integrity, noting that his administration has shown commitment to improving the lives of the people.
Shettima reaffirmed the federal government’s readiness to work closely with Anambra State, stressing that governance should always focus on the welfare of citizens rather than political differences.
“The federal government is ready to partner with Anambra State to achieve development goals,” he said.
The vice-president also highlighted the importance of economic growth and investment in Anambra State.
He urged residents to support the government’s efforts to position the state as a major economic hub in Nigeria.
Anambra is known for its strong commercial activities, with cities like Onitsha and Nnewi playing key roles in trade and manufacturing.
Soludo, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, first assumed office as governor of Anambra State in 2022. His administration has focused on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and security improvements.
His re-election reflects continued support from many voters in the state, although like many political leaders, he has also faced criticism from opponents.
His endorsement of Tinubu is seen by some analysts as part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between the South-East and the federal government.
Soludo’s comments are likely to generate mixed reactions across the country, especially in the South-East, where political opinions remain divided.
Some leaders and groups have continued to push for greater political representation for the region at the national level, including the presidency.
Others believe that aligning with the current administration could bring more immediate benefits, such as federal projects and appointments.
The debate reflects ongoing discussions about the best political strategy for the region ahead of the 2027 elections.
The 2027 general election is already shaping up to be a significant event in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Political leaders across the country are beginning to position themselves and build alliances, while voters are paying closer attention to issues such as security, the economy, and national unity.
For the South-East, the election presents another opportunity to shape its role in national politics.
Soludo’s call for support for Tinubu adds a new dimension to the conversation, highlighting the importance of strategy and unity in achieving political goals.