Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has called on Nigerians to embrace progressive change and ethical rebirth to drive the country’s democracy and development forward.
Soludo made the call in his speech titled: “Rebuilding Our Nation,” delivered during the June 12 Democracy Day celebration, Thursday.
The governor, while acknowledging Nigeria’s complex history and current challenges, outlined a vision for a sustainable and united nation.
He noted that the topic of rebuilding the nation is vast and complex, invoking the historical debates among Nigeria’s founding fathers on the nature of the country. He highlighted the diverse ethnic and religious composition of Nigeria, emphasising the need for unity and shared purpose.
Soludo argued that Nigeria’s journey towards nationhood is still an aspirational goal, citing the national anthem’s plea for a nation where no one is oppressed. He suggested that the current epoch of Nigeria’s history requires a deliberate effort to create a sustainable nation, moving beyond mere and lamentations and slogans to actionable strategies.
On economic challenges, the Governor also emphasised his optimism for Nigeria’s future, focusing on the progress made despite numerous challenges. He commended the current Tinubu administration’s economic reforms, noting endorsements from international institutions like the World Bank and IMF. He urged critics to provide constructive alternatives rather than merely lamenting the state of affairs.
Drilling down to the country’s polity and democracy, Governor Soludo identified two key areas for rebuilding the nation: ideological foundations for political parties and an ethical-value rebirth among citizens.
He lamented the lack of clear ideologies in Nigeria’s political landscape, describing the current state as a “Nigerian Elite PLC” driven by opportunism rather than principles. He called for a return to ideologically driven parties, citing examples from Nigeria’s Second and Third Republics.
The Anambra State Governor proposed the formation of a new Progressive People’s Alliance (PPA), uniting parties with progressive credentials to present a united front in the 2027 elections. This alliance, he argued, would provide a clear alternative to the status quo and drive transformative policies.
Governor Soludo also stressed the need for an ethical and value rebirth among Nigerians, advocating for a culture that rewards hard work and integrity over corruption and superstition.
He highlighted Anambra State’s efforts to combat criminality and promote ethical values, including the enactment of the Homeland Security Law and initiatives to reduce corruption and promote transparency, while criminalising native doctors who promote diabolical means to quick riches via phantom money rituals.
Soludo called for a national conversation on citizenship, religious tolerance, and the eradication of ethnic and religious bigotry. He cited Anambra’s successes in promoting unity and inclusive governance, emphasising the need for similar efforts nationwide.
He however urged all stakeholders in the Nigeria project to unite around a progressive agenda, focusing on education, healthcare, and the enforcement of progressive principles outlined in Nigeria’s constitution.
He also called for a mass movement to challenge corruption and promote ethical values, involving all sectors of society.
