…says Icon Gave Black Race a Voice
AWKA — Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has unveiled a grand statue of literary icon, Professor Chinua Achebe, at the Ugwu-Nwasike Roundabout in Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area.
Soludo, who announced the unveiling on X on Sunday, said the event was more than the unveiling of a monument, but “a declaration” of the state’s commitment to preserving Achebe’s legacy.
“Achebe did not just write books. He gave the black race a voice, redefined African literature, and told our story to the world with courage, clarity and intellectual integrity,” the Governor said.
He noted that Achebe’s novel, _Things Fall Apart_, did more than sell millions of copies, adding that “it restored the dignity of a people.”
The Governor said the statue is part of the state’s efforts to ensure Achebe’s legacy never fades. In 2023, the state government renamed its International Airport after the late author — the ‘Chinua Achebe International Passenger and Cargo Airport’.
“Today, we have given him a permanent place in the heart of his hometown, Ogidi,” Soludo added.
He urged youths to draw inspiration from Achebe’s life of scholarship, principled leadership, truth and service to humanity.
Soludo also thanked Prof. Ike Achebe and the entire Achebe family for joining the event.
“Though he left us in 2013, his spirit still guides our intellectual and cultural journey as a people. Ndi Anambra, we do not forget our own. Chinua Achebe lives on!” he said.
The unveiling was attended by dignitaries, literary scholars and residents of Anambra State.
