HOMELAND INITIATIVES AND COMBATING INSECURITY IN ANAMBRA STATE – SOLUDO DESERVES COLLECTIVE SUPPORT, NOT VILIFICATION

Lagos-based fiery Human Rights Lawyer and Advocate, Mr. Joe Nwokedi, has commended Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, on his “well-deserved” award by SUN NEWSPAPERS.

The Human Rights Lawyer, who also hails from the state, stated that he has been one of the vocal critics of the governor, with respect to the escalated security challenges in Anambra State in the recent past.

Nwokedi has, however, praised the governor not just for aggressively  combating insecurity in the state, but for taking a holistic approach to uprooting criminality and other societal vices from Anambra State.

He specifically noted that “the fight against fake Native Doctors and Voodoo practitioners in the state, together with people engaging in all forms of unwholesome practices aimed at misleading and hoodwinking our teeming young generation/youths into believing in the get-rich-quick syndrome, instead of hard work and diligence which Anambra people are known for, is a milestone achievement by the governor and needs a resounding commendation and support by all.”

The human rights lawyer noted that Governor Soludo is by his recent action “replicating the feats of Great Kings and Prophets of Old that stood up against such dubious mystical practices and rescued Israel and mankind from eternal doom and damnation.”

The lawyer, who also doubles as the President of the Anambra State Indigenous Lawyers Forum (ASILF), “therefore calls on all good people of Anambra State and beyond to lend their voices and join hands with the governor to ensure an overwhelming victory and success in this fight against insecurity and other societal ills in Anambra State and our society at large.”

Speaking on “HOMELAND INITIATIVES AND COMBATING INSECURITY IN ANAMBRA STATE – SOLUDO DESERVES COLLECTIVE SUPPORT, NOT VILIFICATION,” Nwokedi expressed his “strong support” for Governor Soludo for his “broader initiatives aimed at fostering societal transformation in the state.

“Governor Soludo’s tenure has been characterized by his unyielding dedication to improving the security landscape of Anambra, one of the most economically vital states in southeastern Nigeria. The governor’s efforts to combat insecurity are not merely reactive but reflect a comprehensive and proactive approach. Rather than solely relying on traditional law enforcement tactics, Soludo’s administration has employed innovative measures to address the root causes of criminality in the state. These include community engagement, strengthening local policing systems, and investing in youth empowerment programs designed to mitigate the appeal of criminal activities.

“A particularly significant aspect of Governor Soludo’s security strategy is his focus on tackling the societal factors that contribute to the rise of insecurity. As Mr. Nwokedi pointed out, one of the governor’s most important milestones has been his campaign against the pervasive influence of fake native doctors and voodoo practitioners. These individuals often exploit vulnerable citizens, particularly the youth, by promoting fraudulent beliefs that promise quick wealth and prosperity through supernatural means.

“In his campaign, Governor Soludo has demonstrated a deep understanding of how these practices perpetuate a cycle of poverty and misinformation. The false promises of “get-rich-quick” schemes, which are frequently disguised as spiritual guidance, not only undermine societal values but also contribute to the erosion of cultural norms based on hard work, integrity, and diligence—traits for which the Anambra people are historically known. By targeting these deceptive practices, Soludo has initiated a much-needed cultural shift that emphasizes diligence, education, and personal responsibility over superstition and exploitation.”

The human rights lawyer stated that by dismantling the influence of those who prey on the vulnerable, Soludo is not only promoting security but also safeguarding the moral and cultural fabric of Anambra State.

His words: “Additionally, Governor Soludo’s holistic approach extends to his governance philosophy, which prioritizes long-term sustainable development over short-term gains. He has invested heavily in infrastructure development, health, education, and youth empowerment programs, which are all critical to curbing the underlying factors that fuel insecurity. The governor’s emphasis on building a strong economic foundation for the state is expected to yield positive dividends in terms of reducing unemployment, poverty, and disenchantment among the populace—factors that often contribute to criminal behavior.

“In line with his belief in inclusive governance, Governor Soludo has called for collaboration across all sectors of society, including the private sector, civil society organizations, and religious institutions, to ensure that the fight against insecurity and societal ills is truly a collective effort. His administration has made efforts to engage traditional leaders, local government officials, and grassroots organizations in the development of localized solutions to security problems, recognizing that no single approach can fully address the complex issues at hand.”

Nwokedi emphasizes the importance of unity in this critical period and called on “the good people of Anambra State, and indeed Nigerians at large, to rally behind Governor Soludo’s initiatives, recognizing that the fight against insecurity is not solely the responsibility of the government but one that demands the active participation of every citizen. By supporting Governor Soludo’s efforts, citizens can contribute to the creation of a safer, more prosperous, and morally upright Anambra State, which will ultimately have a positive impact on the broader Nigerian society.

“In conclusion, while it is natural for citizens to critique their leaders, it is equally important to acknowledge and support effective leadership when it is demonstrated. Governor Charles Soludo’s initiatives, especially in combating insecurity, deserve collective support and not vilification. His efforts, rooted in both security reforms and cultural renewal, offer a blueprint for other states grappling with similar challenges.”

According to Nwokedi, “The success of these efforts will depend on the collective will of all Anambra citizens, as well as the broader Nigerian public, to work hand in hand with the government to secure a brighter future for all.”