By Prosper Mene
The Anambra State Government has categorically dismissed social media allegations implicating Dr. Nonye Soludo, wife of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, in a ₦38 million contract at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), labeling the claims as “malicious fabrications” aimed at undermining her reputation and the administration’s credibility.
In a statement released on Monday, Daniel Ezeigwe, Senior Media Aide to Dr. Soludo, debunked reports that the First Lady influenced the award of a ₦38 million contract at COOU’s Igbariam campus through a supposed Senior Special Assistant (SSA) named Mrs. Chinwe Umerie.
Ezeigwe clarified that Anambra State has no formal Office of the First Lady, and no such aide exists. “Dr. Nonye Soludo has no involvement in government contracts, including any alleged project at Ojukwu University,” he said. “These claims are the work of mischief-makers desperate to distract from the state’s progress.”The allegations, which gained traction over the weekend on platforms like X, suggested Dr. Soludo facilitated the contract through intermediaries, causing public debate.
Ezeigwe emphasized that the First Lady’s activities are limited to voluntary initiatives, such as her “Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo” campaign, which promotes nutrition and wellness, and empowerment programs for women and youths.
In June 2025, she empowered over 1,000 female traders in Dunukofia with grants, and in August, she launched the Renewed Hope Initiative, benefiting 1,000 women with business support.
This is not the first time COOU has faced scrutiny. In February 2025, the university refuted similar accusations of contract fraud against its acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kate Omenugha, dismissing them as attempts to discredit her leadership.
Dr. Soludo, a trained pharmacist, was honored by COOU in May 2025 with an honorary Doctor of Public Health and Nutrition for her contributions to community health. She also received a Compassionate Service Award from the Nigeria Labour Congress in Anambra earlier this year for her advocacy.
The timing of the allegations has raised suspicions of political motives, with the 2025 governorship election looming.
