Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Chief Press Secretary to Anambra State Governor, Christian Aburime, has refuted reports that the administration of Professor Chukwuma Soludo, abandoned persons with disabilities (PWDs) and the vulnerable groups in the state.
Former Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Mrs Uche Ajuluchukwu, had made the accusation recently in Awka, the state capital, while speaking at an event organised to mark the one year anniversary of the Anambra State Disabilities Rights Commission (ANSDRC).
According to her, “the Governor has never budgeted a dime for, nor released one Kobo to Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the State since he came on board in 2022 despite their contributions to engender good governance and development of the state.”
Reacting in a statement obtained by Ikengaonline, Aburime said Ajuluchukwu’s allegations against the Governor “are untrue and spoken out of ignorance.”
It reads in part: “The attention of the Anambra State Government has been drawn to a misleading statement by a former Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa, Mrs. Uche Ajuluchukwu, alleging that “the current administration in the State had never budgeted a dime for, nor released one Kobo to Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) in the State since it came on board in 2022.”
“It is rather unfortunate that Mrs Ajuluchukwu has chosen to misrepresent the facts regarding Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s commitment to inclusivity and empowerment for all its citizens, including Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
“Her allegations against Governor Soludo’s administration are not only misguided but also devoid of truth. If there was no concealed motive involved, perhaps one would say that she spoke out of sheer ignorance.
“Contrary to her claims, Governor Soludo’s administration has taken remarkable actions in ensuring the welfare and empowerment of the vulnerable segments of society in the State, including the PWDs.
“It is clear that Mrs. Ajuluckwwu has not taken the time to thoroughly research the government’s initiatives before making such baseless accusations.”
“Constructive criticism is always welcomed, but it should be based on verified information rather than misleading narratives.
“Mrs Ajuluchukwu’s assertions not only misconstrue the efforts of the administration but also detract from the true progress being made in Anambra State by Governor Soludo in carrying everyone along irrespective of social stratification.”
