Soludo Restores Abakiliki Street, Earns Praise, Re-election Support for Defending Historical Legacy
By Ukpa Ewa
The Governor of Anambra State, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has reaffirmed his commitment to preserving historical heritage and fostering national unity by restoring the original name of the popular Abakiliki Street in Awka. The street, renamed Club Road by the previous administration led by Willie Obiano, has now officially reverted to its original identity.
The decision, widely applauded as both courageous and unifying, has sparked a wave of public commendation, with many residents and stakeholders pledging support for Soludo’s re-election bid.
During a recent project inspection and unveiling of the restored street signpost, Governor Soludo described the moment as both emotional and historic. Addressing a gathering of community members and government officials, he said, “Every society has its own history and identity, which must not be altered without just cause.”
The Governor recounted that Abakiliki Street had borne its name since the 1970s—over 50 years ago—before it was renamed Club Road during the last administration for what he described as “trivial reasons.”
“I asked why the name was changed and was told it was because of the presence of clubs along the road. That is not a sufficient reason to erase history,” Soludo said .
He stressed that street names often commemorate significant places, historical figures, or events, and should not be altered arbitrarily.
“We must not revise history casually. This is a correction of an error,” he declared.
Soludo also noted that Abakiliki Street, a major access route in the capital city, was among the first roads his administration awarded for reconstruction. “Anyone coming to Awka in search of help or opportunity must pass through Abakiliki Street,” he remarked
He added that the road has now been fully rehabilitated and upgraded to modern standards.
Dr. Ossy Onuko, Managing Director of the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA), lauded the Governor’s decision.
He highlighted that Abakiliki Street was officially registered and named in 1974, and that its renaming under the previous administration lacked any documented justification.
Dr. Onuko also noted that institutions in Ebonyi State have been named after prominent Anambra individuals, further emphasizing the inter-state bonds that underpin national unity.
Chief Peter Uzodimma, the original founder of Abakiliki Street, shared an emotional testimony. He recalled settling in the area in 1974 and applying for the official naming of the street, which was approved in 2003. However, the name was later changed under the Obiano administration, despite previous assurances it would be preserved.
“I cried for years when the name was changed. But today, Soludo has wiped away my tears. He must serve two terms,” Uzodimma said, prompting loud cheers from the crowd.
Also speaking at the event, Chief Chukwuma Moses, Chairman of the Ebonyi Union in Anambra State, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Soludo.
“Abakiliki Street has been a subject of dispute for years, but today, Soludo has resolved the controversy. He will complete eight years and, God willing, proceed to Abuja as President,” he declared .
Similarly, Mr. Monday Nwokoye, Patron of All Ebonyi Indigenes in Anambra State, pledged the full support of the Ebonyi community to the Governor.
“We are brothers. The Governor’s work in Okpoko has immensely benefited us. Now is the time to show gratitude,” he said.
The event was attended by several top government officials, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi; Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor; members of the Women Alliance for Soludo; and other political stakeholders.
