NEWS
Residents Lampoon Soludo Over Controversial Christmas Tree, Urge Him to Learn Governance Aesthetics from Abia’s Alex Otti
…says Decoration Was Assembled Using Materials Reportedly Recovered From Native Doctors and Ezenwanyi After Their Arrests
Residents of Anambra State have taken to public discourse to heavily criticise Governor Dr. Chukwuma Charles Soludo over what they describe as an embarrassing and poorly conceived Christmas decoration displayed in the state during the yuletide season.
The Christmas tree, which quickly went viral on social media, sparked widespread ridicule and anger, with many residents alleging that the decoration was assembled using materials reportedly recovered from native doctors and ezenwanyi after their arrest by security agencies. While the claim remains an allegation by residents, it nonetheless fueled public outrage and mockery across online platforms.
Critics argue that the decoration falls far below the standard expected of a state led by a governor often associated with intellectualism and global exposure. Many described the display as uninspiring, crude, and unbefitting of Anambra’s status as one of Nigeria’s most educated and commercially vibrant states.
In their reactions, residents openly urged Governor Soludo to visit neighbouring Abia State to “learn a lesson” from Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, whom they praised for his approach to governance, public presentation, and attention to detail.
According to them, Abia under Otti has consistently projected an image of order, class, and modern leadership, even in symbolic areas such as public decorations and urban renewal.
Some residents went further to compare both governors, stating that while Governor Otti carries himself and governs like a “first-class product,” Soludo’s Christmas display suggests otherwise. They noted that leadership is not only about policies and theories but also about perception, symbolism, and the ability to inspire confidence and pride among the people.
As the criticism continues to trend, many Anambra residents are calling on the state government to be more intentional about public projects and representations, especially during festive periods that attract national attention. They insist that Anambra deserves better and that the state must project excellence in every aspect of governance, just as they believe is currently happening
in Abia State.
