Why I Appointed Abia Indigene as Accountant General of Anambra State – Soludo

Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has explained why he appointed Mr. Joachim Achor, an indigene of Abia State, as the Accountant General of Anambra.

Speaking on the controversial appointment, Governor Soludo said the decision was based strictly on merit, professionalism, and dedication to service, not ethnic sentiment.

According to Soludo, Mr. Achor’s appointment is part of his administration’s effort to build an inclusive and competent civil service that rewards excellence regardless of origin.

“This government is about merit. It’s about who can get the job done, not where they come from,” Soludo said.

“Mr. Achor is a brilliant professional. He has served Anambra diligently for years. His track record speaks louder than where he was born.”

Mr. Joachim Achor, originally from Abia State, has worked in the Anambra State Civil Service for decades.

He first came to the state as a youth corps member after graduating from the Federal Polytechnic, Oko.

During his NYSC service, he emerged as the best corps member in the state and received the prestigious NYSC State Merit Award.

Impressed by his performance, the then-military administrator offered him an automatic employment in the state civil service.

From that point, Achor rose steadily through the ranks from Director to Permanent Secretary, and now Accountant General.

While addressing newsmen in Awka, Achor said he was overwhelmed with gratitude.

“I feel deeply honoured to serve as the Accountant General of Anambra. This state has been home to me for decades. I thank Governor Soludo for this rare privilege and assure the people of Anambra of my loyalty and commitment,” he said.

Governor Soludo also noted that this is not the first time his government is making such an appointment.

He recently appointed Mr. Adebayo Ojeyinka, an indigene of Osun State, as a Permanent Secretary in the Anambra civil service.

According to the Governor’s Press Secretary, Mr. Christian Aburime, the appointments followed a transparent selection process which included computer-based tests and direct interviews with the governor himself.

“These appointments are not political. They are the result of a merit-based process that prioritizes competence, professionalism, and readiness to serve,” Aburime said.

He added that Soludo’s administration is determined to move away from the old culture of tribal politics and favoritism in civil service appointments.

“Anambra belongs to all who are ready to work hard and contribute positively. The governor’s actions show that excellence knows no tribe,” Aburime added.

The appointment has sparked debates on social media, with many praising Soludo’s bold decision, while others question the idea of placing non-indigenes in strategic positions.

However, supporters argue that Soludo is building a truly professional public service that reflects Nigeria’s diversity.

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