From Isaac Ojo, Ifeoma Ejiofor, Cynthia Igbokwe, Awka
Prof Charles Soludo was on Thursday morning sworn in as the new Executive Governor of Anambra State.
Justice Onochie Anyachebelu, the Anambra State Chief Judge administered the oath of office on Prof Soludo and his deputy, Dr Onyeka Ibezim.
This is even as the wife of former Governor Willie Obiano, Ebelechukwu and that of former national leader of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), late Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Bianca were involved in a show of public shame as they fought each other at the occasion
In his address, Soludo said the new Anambra under his leadership would be a state of law and order.
He thanked the out gone governor, Chief Willie Obiano and the leadership of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for their immense support.
Prof Soludo also applauded the people of the state for confidence reposed in him to serve them as governor.
Soludo immediately announced the suspension of all revenue collections in the state for one month and outlawed all cash payments to Anambra government in Motor Parks, roads or anywhere.
He emphasised the need for peace and called on youths, politicians and agitators to embrace dialogue as that was the only panacea for peace.
The new Anambra State governor also urged Ndi Anambra and residents alike to be prepared to carry out their social and Civic responsibilities.
The swearing in ceremony was without the usual glamour and fanfare as few people attended Prof Soludo’s inauguration.
The historic occasion however witnessed it’s low point as Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano, wife of the outgone governor of Anambra and Chief Mrs Bianca Ojukwu on Thursday engaged in a fisticuff at the venue of the swearing in ceremony.
Trouble started shortly after Soludo and Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim were sworn in by Anambra Chief Judge.
Mrs Obiano who arrived late for the function was seen greeting the VIPs and allegedly made an uncomplimentary remarks on the wife of Dim Chukwuemeka Ojukwu who also allegedly replied in full measure leading to a brawl.
Meanwhile, Professor Chukwuma Soludo has apologized to Anambra people and their friends and guests who attended his inauguration, for the breach of protocol between Mrs Ebelechukwu Obiano and Mrs Bianca Ojukwu.
The head, Soludo media office, Mr Joe Anatune said: “The breach was caused by improper communication which itself arose from a personal issue between the two parties involved in the breach.
“Steps are being taken to resolve the misunderstanding and restore the parties to their previous relationship. Anambra State has over the years been known for a huge stock of social harmony, and the stock will increase substantially in the years ahead as part of the concerted effort to accelerate the state’s development.”
