By Jude Michael
Labour Party’s gubernatorial hopeful for Anambra State in the upcoming 2025 elections, Valentine Ozigbo, has extended appreciation to the Obidient Movement for their endorsement and ongoing support.
Speaking at the 2024 Obidient Movement South-East Good Governance Symposium at All Saints Cathedral Auditorium in Onitsha, Ozigbo lauded the event’s organizers for promoting crucial dialogue on Anambra’s future and the value of transformative leadership.
Organized by the Obidient Movement in partnership with Anambra State Support Groups, with backing from the Valentine Ozigbo (VCO) Foundation and Naija We Can, the symposium provided a platform to discuss Anambra’s development trajectory and promote governance rooted in transparency and accountability.
The event featured prominent figures, including Mr. Peter Obi, former Presidential Candidate and Labour Party leader, as the Special Guest of Honour; and Prof. Pat Utomi, renowned political economist and former Presidential Candidate, as the keynote speaker. Dr. Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, served as Chief Host, with Prof. Stella Okunna chairing the occasion.
Prof. Utomi opened the symposium with his keynote address, “New Tribe of Patriots – Nigeria of Tomorrow”, initiating discussions on leadership and national unity. Ozigbo followed with his presentation, “Ka Anambra Chawapu: An Ideological and Governance Framework”, in which he outlined his vision for a progressive Anambra founded on accountability and sustainable development.
Other notable speakers included Dr. Tony Ikeme, who spoke on the role of the diaspora; Barr. Nexus Sea, on innovative funding paradigms; Prof. Vivian Ojay, on diaspora perspectives; and Dr. Yunusa on future strategies for the movement.
Ozigbo expressed deep gratitude to the Obidient Movement and Anambra Support Groups for their steadfast commitment to positive change and thanked them for reaffirming their endorsement, initially granted in August 2024, of his 2025 gubernatorial candidacy.
‘The endorsement by the Big 6, including the Peter Obi Support Network and Women for Peter Obi, marks a significant step in our shared mission to reshape Anambra,’ he remarked.
He further criticized the current administration in Anambra State, citing growing concerns about insecurity, social oppression, policy setbacks, and constitutional neglect.
‘The people of Anambra are disillusioned and eager for meaningful change,’ Ozigbo noted, pledging to bring integrity, vision, and responsibility back to governance.
Ozigbo extended special thanks to his political leader, Mr. Peter Obi, and to Dr. Tanko Yunusa, for their guidance and steadfast commitment to the ideals of good governance. He also acknowledged key organizers, including Dr. Mo Paul; Okon Lagos; Nana Kazaure; Ibrahim Abdulkarim; Ikenna Azomchine; Mazi Tochukwu Ezeoke; Dan Elombah; and others whose dedication, he said, made the event a success.
The symposium drew leaders and dignitaries from across the South East, with attendees from Abia, Enugu, Ebonyi, and Imo States.
Other guests included Mrs. Azuka Enemo; Hon. Justice Azuka; Hon. Jude Umennajiego; Hon. Pat Okafor; Chief Chike Nwaiwu; and Dr. Oseloka Obaze. The event was supported by the Valentine Chineto Ozigbo Foundation and Naija We Can.
Concluding his address, Ozigbo called for unity and determination in the pursuit of a brighter future for Anambra.
‘In Nigeria, we are Obidient. In Anambra, we are VALiantly Obidient,’ he declared, rallying supporters to join him in advancing positive change across the state.
