Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
The Chief Press Secretary to Anambra State Governor, Christian Aburime, has replied that Governor Chukwuma Soludo distributed rice to Anambra journalists to support them during last Christmas celebration in the state.
The response followed comments by the Chairman of Anambra State Chapter of Nigeria Union of journalists (NUJ), Dr Emeka Odogwu Emeka, that the state Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo “hates Journalists in the state with passion.”
Odogwu had said the Governor had no regards for media men in the state “even when a lot of things are going wrong under his watch” and he did not get bad press.
He also complained that Governor Soludo, in his over a year in office, had not deemed it fit to interact with journalists in Anambra State, but had interacted with every other pressure group in the state and country.
Defending the Governor in a statement, Aburime said unlike how it was painted by Odogwu, the Governor had supported journalists by giving them rice to celebrate Christmas.
The statement read partly: “The Soludo administration would never ignore journalists in the state. That is why, last Christmas, his administration distributed rice palliatives to journalists as a gesture of support during challenging times when food inflation shot through the roof.
“This action, no matter how small, clearly demonstrated the governor’s goodwill and concern for journalists’ welfare. How can a leader who extended such gesture be branded an adversary? Responsible governance is a delicate balance of addressing myriad needs with finite resources.
“Indeed, it is an unfair accusation that casts a shadow over Governor Soludo’s respectful relationship with the press, and it also fails to recognise the governor’s little but notable gestures in the past. While Dr. Odogwu’s concerns deserve a hearing, a closer look reveals a governor dedicated to general progress, not alienating journalists.
“It is unfair to judge Governor Soludo’s commitment to the fourth estate of the realm based solely on his nascent two-year tenure. Transforming a state is an arduous undertaking that demands a stepwise approach and prioritisation, as indicated above.
“Addressing the NUJ’s needs can certainly be part of the plan moving forward. Vilifying the governor as an “enemy” is counterproductive and will only strain the bridges he has built. Patience is most advised.”
Aburime said Governor Soludo understands that a vibrant, well-equipped press serves democracy better. He advised that rather than trade accusations, the state NUJ should explore constructive dialogue to convey their grievances and needs respectfully.
He said Governor Soludo will undoubtedly lend an ear to reasonable requests that uplift the state’s civic institutions as partners in progress, adding that the governor is committed to holistic progress and can hardly be called an “enemy.”
