The Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Anambra State and State Chairman of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), Eminent Uzochukwu, has criticised Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s plan to build a second airport in the state, describing it as an unnecessary project and a waste of public resources.
In an interview with Sunday Sun, Uzochukwu argued that the Chinua Achebe International Airport in Umueri, built by the previous administration, is still underutilised and does not justify the construction of another airport.
He maintained that the state’s limited resources should instead be channelled towards projects capable of creating jobs, improving infrastructure, and addressing unemployment. According to him, a second airport would amount to a “white elephant project” with little economic value for the people of Anambra.
The IPAC Chairman also faulted the condition of roads in Awka, saying the state capital still has several dilapidated roads despite ongoing development in other parts of the state. While acknowledging the Soludo administration’s road projects linking Awka, Nnewi and Ihiala, he urged the governor to focus more attention on the capital city.
On local government administration, Uzochukwu questioned how councils are utilising monthly allocations from the Federation Account, alleging that little development is visible across the 21 local government areas despite substantial federal allocations.
He called on local government chairmen to publicly account for the funds they receive and demonstrate tangible projects that directly benefit residents.
Speaking on security, Uzochukwu commended the establishment of the state’s vigilance outfit, noting that it has contributed to a reduction in crime, but stressed that more efforts are needed to improve governance and service delivery.
He also expressed concern over the lack of visible benefits from oil exploration in Ogbaru Local Government Area, urging government at all levels to prioritise agricultural development and critical infrastructure to unlock the area’s economic potential.
