Anambra Has More Billionaires; They Were Lords Before Obi Came, Obi Made Anambra Home for All — Ogene

Hon. Afam Ogene, Minority Caucus Leader of the NDC in the House of Representatives and representative of Oba/Aro Federal Constituency in Anambra State, has defended former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi following remarks by Adams Oshiomhole comparing security situations in Anambra and Edo States.

Speaking during an interview on SYMFONI TV, Ogene recalled incidents during Oshiomhole’s tenure as Edo State governor, alleging that his Principal Private Secretary, Olaitan, was killed in front of his family. He used the reference to question Oshiomhole’s record in managing security challenges at the time.

Ogene also accused Oshiomhole of being preoccupied with political conflicts during his administration, including disputes with political opponents, traditional institutions, and the state legislature. He contrasted this with Obi’s leadership style, which he described as more civil and peaceful.

According to him, Obi created a more inclusive environment in Anambra State, making it welcoming to people from diverse backgrounds and political leanings. He also stated that Anambra is home to a high concentration of wealthy entrepreneurs, claiming the state has more billionaires per square metre than any other in Nigeria.

Ogene further argued that politically motivated violence was minimal during Obi’s tenure as governor, saying there were few recorded cases of political killings within that period.

In his words, “Per square meter, Anambra has more billionaires than any state in Nigeria. But these billionaires who were lords in themselves before the coming of Obi, with mere civility, Peter Obi made Anambra home for all. A place for everybody.”