By Mary Obi
The governorship candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP), Chief Paul Chukwuma, has reaffirmed his commitment to a transformative governance agenda anchored on the rule of law, local government autonomy, legislative independence, and robust security reform.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists at his Umueri country home in Anambra East Local Government Area, Chukwuma laid out his vision for what he described as “a new era of people-centered governance,” pledging to run an administration built on integrity, competence, and democratic principles.
“Anambra deserves leadership rooted in competence, character, and vision, not political gimmicks,” Chukwuma stated. “Under my leadership, we will restore the constitutional separation of powers and empower the legislature and local governments to function independently and effectively.”
The YPP candidate vowed to return governance to the people by restoring the constitutional roles of the three arms of government, assuring that neither the State Assembly nor local councils would function as mere extensions of the executive arm.
“I don’t want a House of Assembly that’s in my pocket. I will champion a truly independent legislature and conduct credible local government elections. Councils will be free to perform their statutory roles without interference from the state government,” he said.
Chukwuma, who is also the Pro-Chancellor of Olivia University in Burundi, promised to decentralize governance and enable grassroots development through an empowered local government system. He emphasized that such autonomy would improve service delivery, infrastructure, and civic engagement at the community level.
Addressing the spate of insecurity in the state, Chukwuma described the current situation as “a state embarrassment,” adding that it would top his administration’s agenda if elected.
“With the mandate of Ndi Anambra, I will restore peace and order within six months of taking office,” he said. “My approach to security will be grounded in professionalism, transparency, and respect for human rights. Security votes will be used judiciously and openly to protect lives and property.”
He noted that a secure environment is the bedrock of sustainable development, pledging to make the state a safe haven for business, tourism, and investment.
In an apparent response to the often combative nature of political campaigns, Chukwuma reiterated that his campaign would be strictly issue-based and devoid of personal attacks.
“I’m not here to throw insults or engage in theatrics. I’m focused on presenting practical, detailed plans on how to rebuild and reposition our dear state,” he declared. “I have no interest in gossip or what I call ‘chochocho’. Ndi Anambra deserve serious leadership, not comedy shows.”
He promised to address systemic failures in the state’s economic, infrastructural, and social systems, stating that his campaign would outline pragmatic solutions to each of these challenges.
As part of his broader development strategy, Chukwuma outlined plans to dismantle what he termed “entrenched policies” that have hampered Anambra’s economic growth. He promised bold reforms to stimulate local enterprise, attract investment, and expand job opportunities, especially for the youth.
“We will institutionalize policies that enhance business development and generate meaningful employment,” he said. “Youth are the drivers of innovation, and they must be at the heart of our development agenda.”
Chukwuma also pledged to modernize the state’s tax collection system through the use of technology, ensuring transparency and accountability in revenue generation and utilization.
Chukwuma stressed that under his watch, Anambra’s interests would be vigorously defended and strategically represented at all levels of governance.
“We will no longer be passive spectators in national affairs. Anambra will reclaim its rightful place in Nigeria’s political and economic agenda,” he said.
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