Anambra Native Doctors Back Soludo’s Second Term, Praise His Support and Recognition of Traditional Medicine

 

A groundswell of support has emerged for Governor Chukwuma Soludo from a somewhat unexpected but powerful constituency in Anambra State – traditional medicine practitioners and native doctors. Over the weekend, thousands of members of the Anambra State Native Doctors and Spiritual Material Sellers Association gathered in Awka to voice their overwhelming endorsement of the governor's administration and their commitment to backing his second term bid.

The event, marked by drumming, chants, and a symbolic standing ovation, served as a powerful show of solidarity. According to the group’s coordinator, Honorable Daniel Ejie, Governor Soludo has not only given a voice to indigenous practitioners but has also introduced reforms that protect and recognize their cultural relevance. He particularly praised the Homeland Security Law passed under the current administration, stating it was designed to clean up the system and bring credibility to the practice of traditional medicine.

For decades, native doctors in Anambra State have operated under a cloud of public suspicion and regulatory ambiguity. That narrative is changing under Soludo’s leadership, according to Ejie, who explained that the new legal framework allows for clarity, structure, and dignity within the traditional healthcare system. The association believes the reforms are necessary to eliminate harmful practices while preserving authentic spiritual healing and medicinal traditions.

Chief Donatus Nwalunor, a respected member of the executive council of the association, spoke passionately about how the Soludo administration has given them official recognition. This acknowledgment, he said, has not only improved public perception of their work but also allowed them to function without fear of harassment or undue interference. “The governor has shown that he values our contributions to society,” Nwalunor remarked. “That is why we are declaring our total support for him to continue in office.”

Another voice at the gathering was that of Mr Otisi Amakeze, a chief priest who spoke about the spiritual significance of the moment. He said the governor has restored the sacred balance between modern governance and traditional spirituality. For Amakeze, this was not merely political but cosmic, calling Soludo a leader in tune with the ancestral spirits.

Mrs Chinyelu Ndommadu added a gendered perspective, noting how women in the trade have been empowered under Soludo’s regime. She commended the administration for ensuring their financial independence and social recognition. According to her, such inclusive leadership is rare and deserves continuity.

The legislative arm of government also had its representation at the meeting. Honourable Ikenna Ofodeme, Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Majority Leader of the House, addressed the gathering, reaffirming the House's support for traditional medicine while issuing a stern warning. He revealed that the House has passed a bill, now signed into law, which regulates the leadership and operations of traditional medicine practitioners in the state.

Ofordeme emphasized that while the government embraces the role of traditional healers, it will not tolerate any misuse of that position. “We are protecting the integrity of genuine native doctors,” he declared, “but anyone hiding under that title to engage in criminal acts should desist immediately.” He stressed that the intent of the new law is to professionalize and standardize traditional practices, not to criminalize or marginalize the practitioners.

This alliance between the Soludo administration and the native doctor community signals a broader attempt to integrate traditional institutions into the state’s development framework. It is part of the governor's broader vision to promote homegrown solutions, cultural heritage, and indigenous systems that contribute meaningfully to the social fabric.

As the 2025 election cycle looms, support from such a large and culturally significant bloc could prove to be a political advantage. Analysts suggest that Soludo’s engagement with grassroots structures and non-conventional stakeholders reflects a strategic understanding of Anambra’s socio-political landscape.

The endorsement was not merely symbolic. The gathering ended with chants of solidarity, cultural performances, and the public declaration of commitment to campaign for Soludo’s return. According to observers present, the atmosphere was not only festive but spiritually charged, reflecting the unique convergence of politics and tradition.

Governor Soludo’s reformist agenda appears to be resonating across diverse sectors of society. The endorsement by the native doctors of Anambra, long sidelined in official policy circles, is perhaps one of the clearest signs yet that his efforts to build an inclusive and modern state are gaining traction where it matters most – at the grassroots.