Supporters of political parties in Anambra have been instructed to refrain from wearing party uniforms during President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the state on Thursday, in a move aimed at maintaining political neutrality.
The directive was confirmed in a press release by Dr. Alex Obiogbolu, the political adviser to Governor Charles Soludo.
The visit will feature a high-profile town hall meeting at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, where President Tinubu will interact with political stakeholders and commission several infrastructure projects.
To prevent political tension and overt partisan displays, Dr. Obiogbolu urged that attendees dress in regular clothing, stating, “No APGA attire, no support group uniforms – everyone must appear in mufti.”
Reports suggest that both APC and APGA factions had prepared to stage a show of strength by arriving en masse in party-branded apparel, prompting the state to enforce a neutral dress code to ensure a unified atmosphere.
Political insiders hinted that Tinubu’s own party, the APC, was wary of the optics of the visit, especially as it coincides with election preparations and concerns about its candidate, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu. Ensuring a non-partisan gathering was reportedly a condition for Tinubu’s participation.
While in the state, the President is expected to commission various projects such as the new government house and the Solution Fun City recreational centre.
To ensure a safe visit, the NSCDC deployed over 1,500 officers across the state on Wednesday, bolstering security for the presidential engagement.
