Anambra transporters endorse Soludo’s re-election bid

Transport unions, stakeholders and operators in Anambra State have endorsed Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s re-election bid during a mega rally held on Monday at the Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium in Onitsha North Local Government Area.

Soludo, who was elected in March 2022 on the platform of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, is seeking a second term in office, with his administration widely known for implementing structural reforms under the “Solution Agenda.”

One of the most notable areas of reform has been the transport sector, which had long been plagued by issues of multiple taxation, touting, and unregulated revenue collection.

Speaking at the mega solidarity rally, the Coordinator of the Anambra Drivers Forum and Head of the Media Sub-Committee of the event, Osita Obi, praised Soludo’s reforms that have restored order, dignity and accountability in the state’s transport sector.

Obi described the governor as a “courageous, visionary and people-centred reformer” whose leadership had transformed the transport system in Anambra.

He said, “We drivers are united behind one project, Governor Soludo’s re-election. Thousands of drivers and transport stakeholders here today testify that under Soludo’s leadership, the era of touts, multiple taxation, and illegal levies has been decisively curtailed.

“For many years, our parks and motor routes were battlegrounds of extortion, harassment, and lawlessness. Drivers toiled day and night while touts and illegal task collectors feasted on their sweat.

Then came Soludo, a man of courage, vision, and compassion. He heard our cry and responded with firmness and fairness.”

Obi commended the digital unified ticketing system introduced by the current administration, which he said has brought transparency and sanity to revenue collection, allowing drivers to operate with dignity and without fear.

He also commended the Smart Transportation Management System launched by the government, which he said has enhanced road safety, reduced congestion, and improved traffic flow across major cities in the state.

“Soludo’s government has invested heavily in road rehabilitation and construction, opening up communities, industrial corridors, and markets for business and mobility.

These are not media stories—they are live realities. That is why we stand firm behind Soludo, the people’s governor, the friend of drivers, and the reformer of our transport system,” Obi added.

In his response, Soludo, who appreciated the endorsement from drivers and transport unions, described them as critical stakeholders in the state’s economic growth who must be protected.

Expressing concern over reports of continued extortion by some individuals posing as government agents, Soludo pledged to set up a task force to clamp down on those collecting illegal levies from drivers and traders.

He warned government agencies and touts against extorting money from drivers and transport operators in the state.

He further stated that while drivers contribute significantly to the economic development of the state, they are also among the key beneficiaries of his administration’s initiatives.

He said, “My deputy and I appreciate your endorsement. We thank you not only for your support, but also for the vital role you play in driving the economy of the state. You are the lifeline of Anambra’s economy.

“We have fixed many roads, making it less necessary for constant visits to mechanics. We are partners in the progress of Anambra State’s economy. We fixed the roads to boost the economy so that the common man can live happily and survive with less stress.”

Soludo warned drivers against paying any money outside the officially approved government rates, stressing that any payment made should be through the government’s digital platforms.

The Managing Director of the Ocha Brigade and Coordinator of the Solution Marshal/Transport, Celestine Anere, noted that mobilisation efforts had started long ago.

Anere described the Solution Marshals and drivers in Anambra as “foot soldiers” of the governor, ready to protect the November 8, 2025, election.

“We are prepared for the elections and any legal challenge the opposition may pose. The Solution Marshals, in collaboration with drivers, will do everything legally possible to ensure the governor’s victory,” he said.

Culled from punch