Soludo Calls for Unity Among South East Traditional Rulers to Reclaim Regional Values, Development

Soludo Calls for Unity Among South East Traditional Rulers to Reclaim Regional Values, Development

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has called on traditional rulers across the South East to unite and collaborate towards reclaiming and repositioning the region for sustainable development.

Governor Soludo made the call during a recent meeting of the South East Traditional Rulers Council, where he emphasized the importance of unity, cultural preservation, and shared responsibility among stakeholders in shaping the region’s future.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Soludo urged traditional rulers and community-based organisations to work hand-in-hand with political leaders to drive meaningful progress. “As governors of the South East, we are working together, and so far, so good,” the governor stated, reaffirming the commitment of the region’s leadership to collective growth.

He acknowledged the rich cultural diversity within the region, describing it as a source of strength rather than division. “We are as different as we are similar. We are stronger together, united despite our diversity. Keep up the spirit,” he urged.

Highlighting the unifying role of language, Soludo noted that the Igbo language serves as a cultural anchor for the region, despite dialectical differences. However, he expressed deep concern over the gradual erosion of traditional values and societal norms in Igbo land.

“The Igbo land I knew as a child is no longer the same. The fundamentals seem to be eluding us, and many taboos that once bound our society are fading away,” he lamented.

The governor called on the royal fathers to take up their primary role in restoring values and guiding the society back to a path of honour. He also decried the growing celebration of ill-gotten wealth, describing it as a cultural deviation, and urged a return to the core Igbo values of hard work, integrity, and enterprise.

“A society becomes what it celebrates. We must once again begin to honour our heritage and the industrious spirit that defines our people,” Soludo added.

In his remarks, Chairman of the South East Traditional Rulers Council, Dr. E.C. Okeke, commended Governor Soludo for his credible and transformational leadership in Anambra State and the region at large. He stressed the importance of continuous collaboration among South East governors to promote regional development and improve the welfare of citizens.

“You are a good governor, doing well in all ramifications,” Dr. Okeke stated, citing the administration’s efforts in infrastructure, security, and economic revitalisation.

The meeting was also attended by prominent traditional leaders including the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Chidubem Iweka; Former Chairman, Igwe Alfred Nnaemeka Achebe; Commissioner for Local Government, Town Union and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne; and other council delegates from across the South East.