Former Minister of Aviation and frontline contender in the November 18 Anambra State governorship election, Chief Osita Chidoka says the time has come for the state to have a government that is not afraid but bold and fearless enough to speak out for the people and defend them against unwarranted aggressions.

Chidoka, who is contesting on the platform of the United Progressive Party (UPP), stated this on Saturday while commissioning his campaign office in Umueze Anam in Anambra West Local Government Area, which signaled the flag-off of tours and commissioning of his campaign offices in the 21 local government areas of the state.

“I stand for peace and everyone knows that Anambra people are hard working, hospitable and very peaceful. But we cannot continue to suffer repeated unjustified attacks and harassments because those in position are afraid to stand up for the people who elected them into office.

“Our people can no longer continue to agonise under leaders who are afraid to speak out for them when it matters and who are afraid to identify with the fears and views of the people even in a democracy. The time has therefore come for Anambra State to have a government run by individuals who are not afraid but bold enough speak out for the people and defend them in the face of unwarranted aggression,” he said.

Chidoka insisted that the state must enact laws and set rules to protect the people from all forms of aggression, including invasions by herdsmen, adding that anybody found violating the rules would not be spared.

Praying at the commissioning of the campaign office, Chidoka expressed shock over the level of neglect and lack of government presence in Anambra West Local Government.

Also on Saturday, Chidoka commissioned his campaign office in Anambra East Local Government Area where the spokesperson of the campaign team in the area, Elder Paul Oforka said the people of the area believed that he has the capacity, honesty and presence of mind to right the wrongs inflicted on the area in the last four years.