In a resolute call for collaborative governance, the Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, has reaffirmed the importance of constructive engagement between the legislative and executive arms of government, describing it as the bedrock for peace, unity, and sustainable development in the state.
Speaking at a town hall meeting held in Atani, Ogbaru Local Government Area, Speaker Udeze—who represents Ogbaru Constituency 2—reiterated the commitment of the 8th Assembly to the principles of constitutional loyalty and responsive representation. He emphasized that members of the Assembly are united in purpose, transcending party lines to uphold the doctrine of separation of powers, which he said is vital to ensuring transparent and effective governance in Anambra.
Presenting his legislative scorecard, Udeze highlighted key milestones achieved under his watch. These include the enrollment of Ogbaru’s Primary Health Centres and the Comprehensive Health Centre in Atani into the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme, a move aimed at decentralizing access to free medical services.
On infrastructure, the Speaker expressed optimism that the ongoing Osamala–Ogwuikpele road project would soon be completed, crediting Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his dedication to road development in riverine communities. He also announced plans finalized with the Ministry of Power to restore electricity from Ogwuikpele to Ossomala via Obeagwa and Akili Ogidi, following years of outage due to vandalism.
Commending the Speaker’s outreach, Igwe Victor Awogu, Chairman of the Ogbaru Traditional Rulers Council, praised Udeze for fostering dialogue and accountability. He noted that such engagements strengthen democratic participation at the grassroots.
Similarly, Igwe Azuka Ngonadi of Atani, who passed a vote of confidence on the Speaker, stressed the importance of peace across Ogbaru’s 15 communities as a catalyst for long-term growth.
Chief Emma Obi, leader of the Presidents-General in Anambra North, urged continued public support for the 8th Assembly, stating that Udeze’s proactive leadership was key to attracting more democratic dividends to Ogbaru.
Representing the Anglican Bishop of Ogbaru Diocese, Rt. Rev. Prosper Amah, a delegate lauded Udeze’s developmental strides and called for renewed efforts to ensure the full utilization of the area’s oil-producing status. He advocated for the strategic channeling of oil revenue towards addressing the unique infrastructural and environmental needs of mineral-rich communities like Ogbaru.
Ogbaru, a riverine agrarian belt and a vital food basket of Anambra, continues to grapple with recurring flood disasters, a challenge Speaker Udeze said must remain central to the state’s development agenda.
