₦airaland Forum

*GANDUJE'S EMPTY BOAST: ANAMBRA REMAINS APGA'S STRONGHOLD*

By Wole Adedoyin

The recent visit of the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, to Anambra State has sparked political discourse, particularly regarding his declaration that the APC will take over Anambra in the next governorship election.

His statement, laden with political bravado, does not align with the reality on the ground, where the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), under the leadership of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has entrenched itself as the preferred party of the people.

Ganduje’s vow is not only an affront to the democratic choice of Anambra citizens but also an underestimation of the resilience and political consciousness of Ndi Anambra.

The APC’s ambition to wrest power from APGA in Anambra is not based on superior governance records but on mere political desperation.

The people of Anambra have consistently rejected external political dominance, and this will not change anytime soon.

Governor Charles Soludo, since assuming office, has demonstrated a level of governance that speaks directly to the needs of the people. His administration has prioritized infrastructural development, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Under his leadership, Anambra has witnessed a massive road construction drive, rehabilitation of schools, and a boost in agricultural productivity. These achievements resonate with the people, reinforcing their confidence in APGA as the party best suited for Anambra’s continued development.

One of Soludo’s most remarkable feats is his effort in tackling insecurity, a challenge that has plagued many parts of Nigeria. Through strategic investments in security infrastructure, recruitment and training of local security personnel, and collaboration with federal security agencies, Anambra has seen a significant reduction in crime rates. Criminal elements that once terrorized the state have been pushed back, restoring peace and stability.

Unlike the APC, which has failed to address the security crisis at the national level, Soludo has shown that leadership is about proactive governance and not empty rhetoric. The APC’s failure to secure lives and property across Nigeria has made its promise to "take over Anambra" even more laughable. How does a party that has failed in security at the federal level intend to convince Anambra people that it can do better than the current administration?

Furthermore, Soludo’s economic blueprint is transforming Anambra into a hub of commerce and industry. His administration has supported small and medium-scale enterprises, encouraged investment in technology and innovation, and provided incentives for businesses to thrive. His push for a smart megacity aligns with his vision of a livable and prosperous Anambra.

Ganduje’s visit and his misguided declaration ignore the reality that APGA is not just a political party in Anambra; it is a movement. The party embodies the Igbo spirit of self-determination, resilience, and progressive governance. APGA is deeply rooted in the hearts of Ndi Anambra, and its track record speaks louder than Ganduje’s hollow political threats.

APC’s dream of taking Anambra in the next election is unrealistic. The people of the state are politically aware and will not trade good governance for the chaos and deception that have characterized APC’s leadership at the national level. If Ganduje and his party are truly interested in governance, they should focus on fixing the mess at the federal level before looking to destabilize a state that is thriving under APGA’s leadership.

Governor Soludo’s administration has also prioritized education, improving the quality of teachers, and enhancing learning environments across the state. His free education policy for primary and junior secondary school students has eased the burden on parents and ensured that every child has access to quality education.

Additionally, Soludo’s focus on healthcare is commendable. The renovation of general hospitals, provision of modern medical equipment, and recruitment of health workers have improved healthcare delivery in Anambra. The governor’s attention to public health issues, including disease prevention and emergency response, has positioned the state as a model for effective healthcare management.

Anambra’s infrastructural transformation under Soludo is another testament to APGA’s competence. Roads that were once in deplorable conditions have been reconstructed, making transportation more efficient. The ongoing construction of strategic flyovers, bridges, and drainage systems further demonstrates the governor’s commitment to urban renewal and modernization.

If APC truly believes in democratic principles, it should wait until 2030 when Governor Soludo would have completed his constitutionally guaranteed eight-year tenure. Until then, Anambra remains firmly in the hands of APGA, a party that has consistently delivered dividends of democracy to its people.

It is also important to commend the National Chairman of APGA, Barr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, for his leadership and commitment to strengthening the party. Since assuming office, Ezeokenwa has worked tirelessly to expand APGA’s reach, unify its members, and position the party for greater electoral success. His youthfulness, vision, and administrative prowess have revitalized APGA, making it a formidable force in Nigerian politics.

Under Ezeokenwa’s watch, APGA has continued to grow beyond Anambra, gaining influence in other Southeastern states and beyond. His strategic leadership has ensured that APGA remains the dominant party in Anambra, defying the wishes of external political forces who seek to undermine the party’s stronghold.

The APC’s tactics of trying to impose itself on Anambra through propaganda and political maneuvering will not work. The people of Anambra know what they want, and they have found a leader in Soludo who is delivering on his promises. No amount of external interference can change that fact.

While Ganduje and the APC may continue to dream about an Anambra under their control, the reality remains that APGA is the party of the people. The achievements of Governor Soludo have solidified APGA’s place in the hearts of Ndi Anambra, and no amount of political intimidation can alter that.

Instead of wasting time trying to destabilize a well-governed state, Ganduje should redirect his energy toward addressing the internal crisis in APC, a party that has been riddled with infighting, poor governance, and unfulfilled promises.

The people of Anambra are not deceived by Ganduje’s political antics. They know that APGA represents their aspirations and that Governor Soludo is the leader they can trust. The APC should take a backseat and allow democracy to take its course.

Governor Soludo’s tenure is a testament to the power of good governance. From security to education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development, he has shown that leadership is about service, not empty political declarations.

Anambra remains APGA’s fortress, and the APC’s desperation will not change that. The people have spoken through their unwavering support for Soludo, and they will continue to stand by him until 2030 when his tenure expires. Until then, Ganduje and his APC should look elsewhere because Anambra is not for sale.

Wole Adedoyin is the Osun state Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the Coordinator of the Progressive Writers Association of Nigeria (PWAN) and the APGA Press Corps. He can be reached via woleadedoyin@gmail.com.

ANAMBRA: APGA OSUN DEFENDS SOLUDO, CALLS AJIBOLA BASIRU "WORST SENATOR" IN OSUN'S HISTORY

The Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has strongly condemned the recent statement by the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Senator representing Osun Central, Senator Ajibola Basiru, in which he described the projects executed by Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, as "lackluster."

APGA Osun dismissed the remark as baseless, politically motivated, and aimed at undermining Governor Soludo’s remarkable achievements.

In a statement issued by its Chairman, Wole Adedoyin, APGA Osun asserted that Senator Ajibola Basiru’s comment was a deliberate attempt to misrepresent the developmental strides of Governor Soludo.

The party emphasized that Soludo’s administration has undertaken transformative projects that will stand the test of time, proving its commitment to delivering good governance to the people of Anambra State.

The statement further described Senator Ajibola Basiru as the worst senator ever produced by the Osun Central Senatorial District, citing his failure to secure re-election in 2023 as evidence of his poor performance.

According to APGA Osun, Basiru’s constituents rejected him in favor of an unpopular candidate, which speaks volumes about his inefficacy and lack of impact during his tenure.

APGA Osun highlighted the upcoming *Sun Governor of the Year Award* scheduled for March 1, 2025, which will be conferred upon Governor Soludo for his exceptional governance in Anambra State.

The party noted that this recognition solidifies Soludo’s reputation as a visionary leader committed to infrastructural development and socioeconomic transformation.

Widely known as "Mr. Fixer, Mr. Reformer, and Mr. Jinx Breaker," Governor Soludo has implemented solution-driven policies that have visibly transformed Anambra State. His administration's emphasis on accountability and strategic planning has silenced critics, making it evident that his governance is driven by a mission to create a livable and prosperous state.

Among Governor Soludo’s notable achievements are the ambitious road infrastructure projects spanning all 21 local government areas of Anambra State.

Additionally, his government has made significant investments in human capital development, covering crucial sectors such as healthcare, education, youth empowerment, skills acquisition, and seed capital programs.

On his relationship with traditional rulers, APGA Osun recalled that Governor Soludo last year hosted the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, on November 24, 2024. During the visit, the Ooni praised Soludo for his innovative leadership and commitment to societal transformation, encouraging him to continue his good work.

APGA Osun also pointed out that Governor Soludo’s administration has extended its inclusivity beyond Anambra State by appointing Osun State-born Bayo Ojeyinka as a Permanent Secretary in the Anambra State Civil Service.

The appointment, made in March 2024, was based on merit and has been widely praised by civil servants as well deserved.

Ojeyinka, who has been part of the Anambra State public service system since completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 1995, is a testimony to Governor Soludo’s fair and merit-based governance style. His appointment reflects the governor’s commitment to recognizing talent and expertise, regardless of state of origin.

APGA Osun reaffirmed its support for Governor Soludo and his administration, urging Nigerians to disregard the misleading statements made by Senator Ajibola Basiru.

The party maintained that Soludo’s track record speaks for itself, and no amount of political propaganda can erase the visible impact of his leadership in Anambra State.

REMARKABLE ACHIEVEMENTS OF APGA OSUN IN 2024
Below are some of the achievements made by the Osun State All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) under the leadership of Mr. Wole Adedoyin in the year 2024.
STATE WORKING COMMITTEE MEETING (SWC)
In the year 2024, the Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), under my leadership, convened five State Working Committee (SWC) meetings. The dates and minutes of these meetings are as follows:
1. First Meeting: January 7, 2024 - https://apgaosunnews..com/2024/08/third-minutes-of-apga-osun-exco-meeting.html
2. Second Meeting: March 7, 2024 - https://apgaosunnews..com/2024/08/fifth-minutes-of-osun-apga-meeting-held.html
3. Third Meeting: March 16, 2024 - https://apgaosunnews..com/2024/08/fourth-minutes-of-osun-apga-exco.html
4. Fourth Meeting: April 20, 2024 - https://apgaosunnews..com/2024/08/sixthminutes-of-osun-apga-exco-meeting.html
5. Fifth Meeting: July 13, 2024 - https://apgaosunnews..com/2024/08/seventh-minutes-of-osun-apga-exco.html
These meetings were pivotal in driving the strategic direction of the party, fostering effective governance, and ensuring the success of our initiatives in Osun State.
STAKEHOLDERS MEETING
In 2024, the Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) hosted two stakeholders' meetings, which included members of the State Working Committee and the general membership. The first stakeholders' meeting was held on August 2, 2024, while the second took place on August 17, 2024.
CHAIRMEN’S MEETING AND NATIONAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
In 2024, the Chairman of the Osun State Chapter of APGA, Mr. Wole Adedoyin, attended the Chairmen's Meeting presided over by the National Chairman of APGA, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa. This meeting was held on June 26, 2024, at the APGA National Secretariat in Abuja.
The Chairman also participated in the 2024 edition of the Party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) Meeting. This meeting was held on December 6, 2024, at the party’s National Secretariat. It was graced by prominent figures, including the National Leader of APGA, His Excellency, Governor Charles Soludo; the National Chairman, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa; and the Federal Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Her Excellency, Ambassador (Mrs.) Bianca Ojukwu, among others.
NEW SECRETARIAT
The Osun State Chapter of APGA has secured a new secretariat. It is noteworthy that in 2023, the Osun NUJ Press Centre served as the venue for APGA Osun meetings. However, last year, the party acquired its own dedicated secretariat, fully furnished with tables, benches, and chairs.
Since its establishment, the new party secretariat has hosted several party meetings and activities, including the Local Government Primary of the party.
FIRST-EVER LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION APGA WILL PARTICIPATE IN

The year 2024 marked a historic and significant milestone in the history of APGA Osun. Under my leadership, Osun APGA expressed its intention to participate in the upcoming local government election scheduled for next month. We submitted a formal letter to the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), which granted us approval to proceed.
Following this, we held primaries, and our candidates were screened and cleared, as published in the Nigerian Tribune on Tuesday, September 24, 2024. APGA, along with its candidates, will be participating in the local government election set for February 22, 2025.
This will be the first time that APGA in Osun State will be participating in any local government election in the state.
NEW PARTY’S ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER, BANNERS, AND PUBLICITY PLATFORMS

During APGA Osun’s seventh meeting, the APGA Osun Chairman unveiled three newly designed party banners. One banner will be prominently displayed at the front of the party’s secretariat, while the remaining two will be used at State Working Committee meetings, congresses, campaigns, and rallies to enhance the party’s visibility.
Additionally, APGA Osun introduced a new electronic newsletter, available at https://apgaosunnews..com. This newsletter has been documenting and recording news, reports, and activities from APGA Osun, APGA Southwest, and the APGA National. The former blogs of the Chapter remain active and can be accessed through the following links:
• www.apgaosun..com
• www.projectdriveapga..com
• www.apganewsonline..com
The party's Facebook account and other social media platforms are also fully operational.
CONSULTATIVE MEETING ON WOMEN'S POLITICAL PARTICIPATION
On March 26, 2024, APGA Osun nominated four members to attend a two-day consultative meeting organized by the Hope for Family Development Initiative (HFDI). This initiative is part of the project "Advancing Women's Political Participation Through Female Elected Candidates in Southwest Nigeria," funded by the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen, Germany. The meeting aimed to enhance women's involvement in politics.
The nominated members included the Deputy Chairman, Women Leader, Financial Secretary, and Vice Chairman 3.
INEC STAKEHOLDERS MEETINGS
On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, APGA Osun, under my leadership, participated in the second edition of the INEC Quarterly Consultative Meeting with Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The meeting focused on developing strategies for improving the participation of persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the electoral process, as well as the effective capturing of disaggregated data of PWDs on Election Day. The event took place at the Olusegun Agbaje Media Centre, INEC Osun State Office in Osogbo.
Additionally, on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, the Osun State branch of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) invited APGA Osun to participate in its third quarterly consultative meeting with CSOs. This meeting focused on the 2023 General Elections, specifically on the recruitment, training, and development of ad-hoc personnel, as well as issues, challenges, and recommendations. The discussions were aimed at achieving a credible electoral process for the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election. The meeting was also held at the Olusegun Agbaje Media Centre, INEC Osun State Office in Osogbo.
OTHER POLITICAL EVENTS/MEETINGS APGA WAS INVITED TO OR PARTICIPATED IN
• 31st Anniversary Celebration of the Creation of Osun State: Organized by the Ministry of Regional Integration and Special Duties, held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, at the Adolak Event Center, Old Governor’s Office, Osogbo.
• Programs Commemorating the Second Anniversary of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s Administration: Organized by the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the Project Site.
• Second IPADE GOMINA: Organized by the Ministry of Information and Public Enlightenment, held on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the Oba Adekunle Aromolaran Civic Centre, Ereja Square, Ilesa.
• Launching of National and International Postage Stamps in Recognition of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Osun-Osogbo Grove: Organized by the Osun State Government, Ministry of Political Affairs & Intergovernmental Relations, in collaboration with the Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST).
• OsunOpen LG Stakeholders’ Engagement: Held on August 26, 2024, at Benbar Event Hall, beside Regina Suite, Ringroad, Osogbo.
• Summit of Political Stakeholders: Organized by the Osun State Government, Ministry of Political Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations, held on Thursday, August 29, 2024, at the Centre for Black Culture and International Understanding, behind the State Secretariat, Osogbo.
• Invitation to the High-Level Stakeholders Dialogue Ahead of the 2025 Local Government Election in Osun State: Organized by the Justice, Development & Peace Makers’ Centre, held on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at the Catholic Chancery Hall, Bishop’s House, Oke-Ayepe, Osogbo.
WOMEN'S ASPIRANTS TRAINING WORKSHOP
Four women members of the party participated in a four-day workshop from May 22 to May 25, 2024, aimed at promoting female candidates. The training, part of the same project by HFDI, provided valuable capacity-building opportunities. The participants included Mrs. Gloria Bukky Ademola, Mrs. Wuraola Ajao, Mrs. Jayeoba Busayo Deborah, and Mrs. Dunmade Adejoke Wuraola, all of whom received certificates of completion.
DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION
Regarding the ongoing Digital Membership Registration, the Chairman reported that 150 membership registration forms were printed for individuals facing challenges with online registration. These forms were provided by the incumbent National Vice Chairman (Southwest), Alh. Suraj Owolabi. One hundred forms have been distributed to members for further recruitment efforts. Additional forms are available for those who have yet to register. Members who have collected their forms but have not yet submitted them are encouraged to do so promptly, ensuring that their information can be uploaded to the party's website, which houses the membership database.
APGA SUPPORT FUND
To enhance support and sponsorship, the Chairman introduced the APGA Osun Support Fund. This fund will collect donations, contributions, and subscriptions to finance party activities and assist members in need. The Chairman inaugurated the fund in 2024 with a personal donation of Five Thousand Naira (₦5,000).
SHARING OF GOODIES TO EXCOS AND DEDICATED MEMBERS
In 2024, various goodies, including foodstuffs such as rice and maize, were distributed to party members. Committed and dedicated party stakeholders were also given monetary gifts as a token of appreciation for their commitment, dedication, and loyalty to the party.
VISITATION OF MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL WORKING COMMITTEE IN SOUTHWEST
On the 13th of August 2024, Osun APGA played host to two members of the party’s National Working Committee from the Southwest. They were Alh. Suraj Owolabi, the current National Vice Chairman (Southwest) of APGA, and Mr. Rufus Alabi, the National Assistant Organizing Secretary of APGA. The meeting also saw the attendance of Pastor Olatunji Popoola, the current National Auditor of APGA. The meeting focused on the way forward for the party in Osun State.
APPOINTMENT OF AN ACTING STATE PUBLICITY SECRETARY
At the 7th State Working Committee meeting of the party, the newly appointed Osun APGA Publicity Secretary was introduced. Following the National Chairman’s directive for all state chairmen to appoint active Publicity Secretaries, Prince Oluwabusuyi Oluwabamigbe, a social media influencer, was appointed to fill the long-vacant position in Osun after thorough consultation.
APPOINTMENT OF APGA OSUN CHAIRMAN AS A MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL PUBLICITY COMMITTEE OF THE PARTY
During the 2024 NEC Meeting of the party, held in Abuja on the 6th of December 2024, APGA Osun Chairman Wole Adedoyin was appointed as a member of the National Publicity Committee of the party. Wole Adedoyin expressed his gratitude to the National Chairman of the party, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, for the opportunity to serve APGA at the national level.
Signed:
Wole Adedoyin
APGA Osun Chairman
08072673852

**2025: OSUN APGA GREETS NIGERIANS ON NEW YEAR, URGES OSSIEC TO CONDUCT FREE, FAIR LG ELECTION**

The Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has warmly extended its New Year greetings to the citizens of Osun State and Nigerians at large.

The party expressed its optimism for a year filled with progress, unity, and prosperity for all.

This was contained in a press release issued by the Chairman of Osun APGA, Wole Adedoyin.

In the statement, APGA Osun commended the resilience and dedication of the people of Osun State in surmounting the challenges of the past year.

The party expressed gratitude to its members and supporters for their unwavering loyalty and commitment to the vision and values of APGA.

APGA Osun took the opportunity to call on the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to ensure that the forthcoming Local Government elections are conducted in a free, fair, and credible manner.

The party emphasized that such elections are critical to strengthening democracy and fostering development at the grassroots level.

“The Local Government elections provide an opportunity for citizens to have a say in the governance of their communities. We urge OSSIEC to prioritize transparency and fairness, ensuring that the electoral process reflects the will of the people,” the statement read.

The party also encouraged eligible voters in Osun State to actively participate in the electoral process by registering to vote, collecting their voter cards, and turning out en masse on election day. APGA Osun reaffirmed its commitment to presenting credible and competent candidates who are ready to deliver impactful governance.

APGA Osun further pledged to remain a vibrant and constructive opposition, working tirelessly to advocate for policies and programs that will improve the lives of Osun citizens. The party called on the state government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens and ensure equitable distribution of resources in the New Year.

Highlighting its blueprint for 2025, APGA Osun reiterated its focus on grassroots mobilization, strengthening party structures, and preparing for future elections. The party expressed confidence in its ability to play a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of Osun State.

As the New Year unfolds, APGA Osun urged residents to embrace peace, unity, and love for one another, regardless of political, ethnic, or religious affiliations.

The party also called on the youth to be active participants in the democratic process and agents of positive change.

IBADAN BOOK CLUB APPLAUDS OYO STATE LIBRARY BOARD FOR CONTINUED SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT

For over four years, the Ibadan Book Club has enjoyed the privilege of using the facilities of the Oyo State Library Board for its monthly literary readings and other literary engagements. This long-standing collaboration has proven invaluable in the Club’s mission to foster a vibrant reading culture in Oyo State. The partnership has contributed significantly to the literary landscape, bringing together renowned writers, publishers, and stakeholders in the book industry.

In a press statement issued by the founder of the Ibadan Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Oyo State Library Board for providing a conducive space for the Club's activities. The statement lauded the board's continued support, which has enabled the Club to host numerous workshops, seminars, and conferences that have engaged both budding and established writers. These events have further strengthened the reading culture in the state and enriched the local literary scene.

"The Oyo State Library Board has been an indispensable partner in the growth of the Ibadan Book Club, and through this collaboration, we have been able to create meaningful spaces for writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts to connect and grow," said Wole Adedoyin. He emphasized the importance of such partnerships in promoting education and intellectual discourse.

The Club commended the Oyo State Government under the political administration of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde for its visionary leadership, which recently saw the construction of a state-of-the-art shopping complex outside the library. The development marks a significant leap toward optimizing the use of government resources. However, the ongoing construction has not disrupted any part of the library, ensuring that its activities continue to run smoothly.

"The transformation of the library's surrounding environment into a modern shopping complex is a welcome development. It not only enhances the aesthetic value of the area but also optimizes the available resources, making the library a more integral part of the community," said Adedoyin. He noted that the ongoing construction has been handled with care, ensuring that it does not interfere with the library’s operations or its valuable services to the public.

The Club also applauded the inclusion of a 200-seater Computer-Based Test (CBT) facility in the ongoing development project. The CBT center is being built as part of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with the developer, and it is intended to serve the educational needs of the state. This facility will provide students and other residents of Oyo State with the opportunity to access computer-based tests and other educational services, thus contributing to the state's educational advancement.

"The inclusion of the CBT center within the library complex is a forward-thinking initiative. It will serve as a valuable resource for students and job seekers alike, providing them with a reliable space to take important exams and certifications," Adedoyin noted. This addition will complement the library’s existing services, further cementing the Oyo State Library Board’s role as a hub of learning and development.

The Club commended Hon. Yemi Taiwo, Chairman of the Oyo State Library Board, for his leadership and for prioritizing the growth and development of the state's library services. His contributions to the success of the board have been crucial, and his vision continues to shape the future of libraries in Oyo State.

As the Ibadan Book Club continues to thrive with the support of the Oyo State Library Board, it remains committed to expanding its impact on the literary community. Through monthly readings, workshops, and seminars, the Club aims to continue its work in shaping the intellectual landscape of Oyo State. With the ongoing development of the library and its facilities, the future looks bright for the literary community and the residents of Oyo State.