Awka, Anambra State
By Charles Iteshi
Rt. Hon. Comrade Chinedu Ogah, the federal lawmaker representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency, has lauded Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State for reverting the name of Abakaliki Street in Awka, the state capital. The street had previously been renamed “Club Street.”
The decision to restore the original name follows months of public concern and a formal appeal made by Hon. Ogah in April 2025. The lawmaker praised Governor Soludo’s move as a unifying and culturally respectful decision.
“Restoring Abakaliki Street is not just about a name. It is a bold statement of unity, mutual respect, and recognition of shared history between the people of Ebonyi and Anambra States,” Ogah stated.
Ogah, who chairs the House Committee on Reformatory Institutions, emphasized that such gestures significantly promote harmony across the Southeast, particularly between neighboring states with strong cultural and economic ties.
However, the lawmaker also used the opportunity to voice concerns regarding the alleged mistreatment of Ebonyi residents in Anambra State. He cited reports of harassment, intimidation, and abuse by some security operatives targeting Ebonyians.
“I call on Governor Soludo to investigate and address these disturbing reports. Unity cannot thrive where discrimination and intimidation exist,” Ogah asserted.
He appealed to the Anambra State Government to extend inclusion and recognition to Ebonyi people living in the state, particularly concerning land ownership and social integration. He drew a parallel with Ebonyi State’s continued efforts to accommodate and empower non-indigenes.
“Our people in Anambra deserve the same hospitality and respect extended to others in Ebonyi. Fair treatment and mutual support will only strengthen inter-state relations,” he said.
Ogah also urged Ebonyi residents in Anambra to remain law-abiding, respectful of local laws, and to refrain from actions that could provoke tension or reinforce tribal divisions. “We must be ambassadors of peace and unity wherever we find ourselves. Let us avoid actions that could attract shame or foster discrimination,” he advised.