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From Aloysius Attah, Onitsha
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has declared that permanent peace is a non-negotiable prerequisite for grassroots development, charging newly recognised traditional rulers to act as impartial fathers to all members of their respective domains.
Speaking at the Light House, Awka, during the presentation of certificates of recognition to the Traditional Ruler of Nsugbe and Adazi-Nnukwu, Igwe John Nzekwesili Nweke and Igwe Ethelbert Muoka, respectively, the governor offered both congratulations and commiserations and acknowledged the challenges of leadership, noting that opposition to authority is a long-standing reality. He urged the monarchs to make every effort to ensure peace, emphasising that they are now the fathers of all, embracing both supporters and critics alike.
Highlighting systemic issues in grassroots administration, Governor Soludo revealed that the state is working on a New Community Administration Law designed to birth structured community governance.
He pointed out that communities are currently governed by voluntary town unions registered under the Corporate Affairs Commission, a system that has led to multiple rival factions and endless court cases regarding leadership and traditional rulership. Contrasting this with higher tiers of government, the governor remarked that factions only exist in communities because they are run by voluntary associations.
Governor Soludo enjoined veteran traditional rulers to guide the new entrants as the state works to evolve a new society through a bottom-up approach that will put Anambra communities on the global map.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Local Government and Community Affairs, Barr. Ifeanyi Ezeaka, remarked that both traditional rulers went through due process of law at the selection level.
“These new leaders are the first to be presented in Mr Governor second tenure, following twelve traditional rulers recognized during his first term, transitioning from the communities through the local government authorities before receiving final state approval.
Speaking to the media, the two traditional rulers assured the public of harmonising their people to enthrone peace in their respective communities.
The event was also witnessed by the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers’ Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, alongside the Presidents-General of both communities.
