In a strong statement on Election Day, Anambra State Governor Professor Chukwuma Soludo criticized politicians campaigning on the promise of serving only one term in office. Soludo described such pledges as deceitful and an insult to the intelligence of Anambra people. Speaking in an interview on Arise Television on August 20, 2025, Soludo argued that this tactic is not new and has been used before in the state's political landscape.
*The Context of Soludo's Criticism*
- *Zoning Arrangement in Anambra*: Soludo emphasized the importance of respecting the state's zoning arrangement for rotational leadership among senatorial zones. This arrangement dictates the rotation of power among the state's senatorial zones.
- *Previous Election Comparison*: He recalled a similar promise made during the 2017 governorship election, which was rejected by the electorate. Soludo's party won all 21 local governments in that election.
*Key Points Made by Soludo*
- *Disingenuous Promises*: Soludo described one-term pledges as "disingenuous" attempts to "torpedo" the zoning process. He believes politicians making these promises are being deceitful.
- *Unrealistic Manifestos*: He argued that the manifestos of such candidates are unrealistic, requiring more than 20 years to implement. Soludo questioned the logic behind making such promises.
- *Respect for Anambra People*: Soludo stated that Anambra people are not fooled by such promises, referencing the outcome of the 2017 election.
*Zoning and Rotation of Power in Anambra*
- *South Senatorial Zone Turn*: Soludo stressed that the South senatorial zone must complete its turn before power rotates to the Central senatorial zone.
- *Politicians "Swimming Against the Tide"*: He criticized politicians from the South senatorial zone making one-term pledges as going against the established zoning arrangement.
*Implications of Soludo's Statements*
- *Political Strategy Critique*: Soludo's comments highlight the strategic use of one-term promises in political campaigns and question their sincerity.
- *Electoral Dynamics*: The governor's remarks suggest that Anambra voters are discerning and unlikely to be swayed by what he considers deceitful tactics.
*Broader Context of Anambra Politics*
- *Zoning as a Political Norm*: Zoning is a significant aspect of political power rotation in Anambra State, aimed at ensuring equitable representation.
- *Public Perception of Political Promises*: Soludo's criticism touches on how voters perceive campaign promises, especially those seen as unrealistic or manipulative.
Do you want me to explore further the implications of zoning in Anambra State's politics or discuss how politicians in Anambra respond to criticisms of campaign promises?
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