2027: Native doctors endorse Gov Soludo for second term

As the November 8 governorship election draws near in Anambra State, thousands of native doctors and traditional religion practitioners have declared their support for the re-election of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo.

The endorsement came during a statewide meeting held in Awka, where practitioners from the 21 local government areas gathered to address recent legislative developments affecting their practice and dispel misconceptions about the government’s stance on traditional institutions.

The gathering also served as a sensitization forum on the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, passed earlier this year, which aims to differentiate between genuine traditional practitioners and individuals using traditionalism as a cover for criminal activity.

State Coordinator of Native Doctors and Spiritual Material Sellers, Daniel Ejie, praised Soludo for his inclusive leadership and the passage of the Homeland Security law, which he described as a landmark move in legitimizing their profession.

“Before now, we were unfairly associated with criminality, but Governor Soludo has restored our dignity through recognition and legal backing,” Ejie stated.

“He understands the role of traditional spirituality in Igbo governance and has given us a voice.”

He commended the Anambra State House of Assembly for its legislative support, saying the law has reawakened pride among genuine native doctors.

Ejie also highlighted the governor’s achievements in infrastructure, digital governance, youth empowerment, and cultural inclusion.

“With this endorsement, we join the growing number of stakeholders backing Soludo’s second-term bid,” he added.

Responding to the endorsement, the Majority Leader of the Anambra State House of Assembly and Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, Hon. Ikenna Ofodeme, reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to preserving Igbo culture and traditional values.

He clarified that the Homeland Security Law was designed to support and regulate indigenous practices, not suppress them.

“Governor Soludo is not against the traditional institution.

“On the contrary, he is committed to safeguarding our heritage while ensuring public safety,” Ofodeme said.

He noted that the law formally structures the operations of native doctors, distinguishing them from criminal elements who exploit culture for harmful purposes.

The endorsement was marked by chants, drumming, and displays of solidarity, as the native doctors pledged their full support for Soludo’s re-election, citing his people-centered governance and cultural sensitivity as key reasons for their decision.