Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State has revealed that the deplorable condition of Okpoko, one of the largest urban slums in the Southeast, inspired his decision to contest the 2022 governorship election.
He made this known on Friday during the Ogbaru Constituency Campaign rally held in the Okpoko area. According to him, the hardship residents faced for many years deeply troubled him and, therefore, motivated his resolve to bring meaningful change.
Okpoko as Soludo’s Major Motivation
“Okpoko is one of the main reasons I contested to be governor of Anambra,” Soludo declared. “From 2010 until 2022, I could not sleep well seeing the way Okpoko was — the biggest urban slum in the Southeast, if not Nigeria, with over half a million people.”
Furthermore, the governor described the area’s previous condition as terrible. “No water, no road, no street lights, nothing,” he said. “I told you during my campaign that help was on the way.”
Soludo Begins Work in Okpoko Immediately
In continuation of his remarks, Soludo reminded residents of his campaign promise to take action immediately after his inauguration. “I promised Ndi-Anambra that either the day of my swearing-in or the day after, I would resume work at Okpoko,” he said. “I was sworn in on the 17th and came here on the 18th.”
Since then, he explained, significant progress has been made in the area. “Today, over 20 kilometers of roads have been built. Street lights are shining, pipe-borne water is flowing, and for the first time, a hospital now serves Okpoko,” Soludo stated.
Progress and Commitment to Inclusive Growth
Moreover, the governor noted that children in Okpoko now enjoy free education under his administration. “Children are enjoying free education; that’s why we came. I love you more. I will come and take one room here,” he said with a smile, drawing cheers from the crowd.
In addition, Soludo reaffirmed his commitment to developing every community in Anambra. He emphasized that Okpoko’s renewal represents his administration’s vision of inclusive growth and sustainable urban transformation. Ultimately, he believes that improving Okpoko will symbolize a new era of hope for the entire state.
