“Anambra is no longer a dread zone, but a joyous haven embraced by peace, joy, and goodwill this season and beyond,” Soludo said in a statement by Press Secretary to the governor, Mr Christian Aburime.

The statement highlighted the efforts made by his administration over the past months to “drastically reverse the security situation.” This includes establishing a Ministry of Homeland Affairs focused on security, strategizing with security agencies, and empowering local vigilante groups.

“Now, surveillance eyes are everywhere watching, joint security squads are patrolling the streets, and criminal shadows are fading,” the statement noted.

However, the statement reminded residents that security remains a collective responsibility and called for communities to continue standing guard and working hand-in-hand with government and security agencies.

The statement pointed to positive changes in places like Upper Iweka, Onitsha which he said now “beats with newfound rhythm, free from the grip of fear.”

As security forces are standing ever vigilant and our roads are gleaming free of potholes, festive cheer will flow unfettered.”

The Anambra State Government promised smooth traffic flow guided by the Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency and extra security against any threats of “festive frenzy.” The statement also assured emergency health services will be on standby over the holidays.

“So come home without a doubt. Governor Soludo has put all necessary, detailed measures of security of lives and property in place, hand in hand with our security agencies and our local communities.”

The state government expressed full confidence that the state is now safe for all to return and celebrate Christmas with their families without fear.

“Together, we will celebrate Christmas and New Year bathed in peace, suffused in joy, and glowing in the warmth of homecoming.”

Soludo and Obi met behind closed-doors after which Obi lauded Soludo for the “great job he is doing in Anambra State.”

This is contained in a statement posted to the Facebook Page of Soludo TV on Friday.

The statement, which is titled, ‘Soludo receives Peter Obi on a courtesy visit’, read: “Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, received earlier today, Mr Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State and Presidential candidate of the Labour Party at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia.

“Both leaders had a mutual discussion behind closed doors. Afterwards, Mr Peter Obi commended Governor Soludo highly for the great job he is doing in Anambra State. “Governor Soludo, on the other hand, welcomed Mr Peter Obi to Anambra as a prominent son of the state and wished him well in his Presidential bid as the Presidential candidate of the Labour Party.”

After the meeting, Soludo, wrote on his verified Facebook Page, “Today after my engagement with the YESS family, I received in audience my brother and Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi, in a private meeting at the Governor’s lodge, Amawbia.

Mr. Obi is one of the two illustrious Sons of our dear State gunning to be the President of Nigeria. The other is Justice Peter Umeadi of our great Party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

“As the Governor of these great Sons of the State, I am proud of this moment in history. And wish them the best of luck.”