A prominent Anambra elder statesman, Chief Rommy Okoli, has urged Governor Chukwuma Soludo to avoid unnecessary conflicts with traditional and religious leaders in the state.
Okoli, a former local government chairman, expressed concern over the recent war of words between Soludo’s administration, the church, and traditional rulers.
Speaking with journalists in Awka on Thursday, Okoli said the brickbats distracted focus from discussing policies to improve citizens’ wellbeing.
“The events in Anambra are no longer palatable. The conversation in the media is no longer on the wellbeing of our people. This must be checked before it degenerates to anarchy,” he said.
Okoli advised Soludo to take full charge and not allow appointees and propagandists to create tension in the state.
He described videos allegedly showing the destruction of businesses in unapproved locations as bad for Anambra’s image and progress.
“We have seen the face-off between the government and the church, between the government and traditional rulers and even videos on the destruction of businesses they say are operating in unapproved locations.
“This is not good for the image of our state. It is not good for the progress of our state. We need positive and constructive engagement to sustain the peace and tranquility we are getting back,” he said.
The elder statesman noted Anambra had always enjoyed politics without violence and urged Soludo to maintain focus.
Instead, Okoli advised Soludo to collaborate with federal lawmakers like Ifeanyi Ubah, Tony Nwoye and Victor Umeh to attract more development to the state.
“These people mean well and the masses love them. Let love reign,” he said.
Okoli called on Soludo to take full charge and not allow propagandists create unnecessary conflicts with respected institutions.
SOURCE: DAILY POST NEWSPAPER