On Thursday, August 14, 2025, former Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, refuted media claims that he criticized Anambra State Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for opposing Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi, as reported by Vanguard and The Sun. In a statement by his Special Assistant Hygg Obialor, Ngige clarified that his remarks during an August 8, 2025, birthday interview with Signature TV were selectively edited, misrepresenting his comment: “I don’t want to be like Soludo whom our people wrongly perceive everything he says to be against Peter Obi.” He stressed the statement was not hostile but acknowledged Soludo’s right to express opinions, noting Signature TV’s apology for the misleading edit.
Ngige praised both Soludo and Obi, recalling his 2003–2006 governorship tenure when he cleared salary and pension arrears, increased pensions by 142%, and secured national education awards, laying a foundation for Obi, who inherited ₦13.8 billion in state funds, including ₦8.7 billion for infrastructure (ThisDay). He lauded Soludo’s stewardship, citing 200 km of roads constructed and free education policies in 2024 (Daily Post). X posts from @SignatureTV_NG (August 13, 2025) confirmed the apology, while @AnambraVoice praised Ngige’s clarification but urged unity, reflecting tensions amid Obi’s 2027 campaign. Ngige reaffirmed support for Soludo, describing him as a “diligent steward” managing Anambra’s ₦410 billion 2025 budget effectively.
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