Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has restored the original name of Abakaliki Street in Awka, the state capital. The decision comes after mounting pressure from Ebonyi State lawmakers and residents who demanded the restoration of the historical street name. Here is all details how Gov Soludo restores Abakaliki street in Anambra
The former administration of Willie Obiano had previously renamed the street Club Street.” However, the Anambra State Government has clarified that Governor Soludo was not responsible for the initial renaming of the thoroughfare.
Commissioner for Information Dr. Law Mefor issued a statement dismissing claims that the current administration renamed Abakaliki Street to Club Street. He described such allegations as malicious and misleading, emphasizing that the renaming occurred before Soludo assumed office.
The restoration follows sustained advocacy by Hon. Chinedu Ogah, member representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives. Ogah, who chairs the House Committee on Correctional Services, had repeatedly called on authorities to restore the street’s original name.
The Ebonyi lawmaker had warned that failure to restore Abakaliki Street could prompt his state to reciprocate. He suggested that Ebonyi might consider changing streets named after Anambra towns and villages in Abakaliki city if the matter remained unresolved.
Governor Soludo’s decision to restore the original name demonstrates his commitment to preserving historical legacies between neighboring states. Many have widely interpreted the move as a gesture of goodwill toward maintaining peaceful coexistence in the Southeast region.
The restoration acknowledges the long-standing relationship between Anambra and Ebonyi states, which share historical and cultural ties. Many residents of both states have welcomed the decision as a step toward strengthening inter-state cooperation and unity.
Abakaliki Street is one of the major thoroughfares in Awka, serving as a commercial hub for traders and business operators. The street has undergone significant transformation under various administrations, including infrastructure development and urban renewal projects.
The controversy surrounding the street’s name had created tension between the two neighboring states for several years. Political stakeholders and community leaders from both states had engaged in discussions to resolve the matter amicably through diplomatic channels.
Governor Soludo’s administration has prioritized maintaining cordial relationships with neighboring states while pursuing development projects across Anambra. The governor has consistently emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in addressing shared challenges and promoting economic growth.
The street name restoration is expected to enhance the existing diplomatic ties between the two states. It represents a practical demonstration of the governor’s commitment to resolving contentious issues through dialogue and mutual understanding.
Local residents and business operators along the street have expressed satisfaction with the decision to restore the original name. Many view it as recognition of the historical significance of Abakaliki in the broader Southeast regional context.
The development comes amid ongoing efforts by Southeast governors to strengthen regional integration and cooperation. Governor Soludo has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at promoting unity and collaboration among states in the region.
Political analysts have described the restoration as a diplomatic victory that could serve as a model for resolving similar inter-state disputes. The peaceful resolution demonstrates the effectiveness of dialogue in addressing contentious issues between neighboring communities.
The gesture is expected to boost commercial activities and cultural exchanges between residents of both states who frequently conduct business along the corridor. Many traders and entrepreneurs have establishments that serve customers from both Anambra and Ebonyi states.
Governor Soludo’s decision reflects his administration’s broader policy of promoting inclusivity and recognizing the contributions of all ethnic groups to Anambra’s development. The restoration aligns with efforts to maintain the state’s cosmopolitan character and welcoming atmosphere for all residents.