The First Lady of Anambra State, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has thrown a public challenge to Senator Uche Ekwunife, asking her to take an oath of fidelity before the Blessed Sacrament and to subject her children to DNA tests.
In a statement issued on Friday, Mrs. Soludo accused Senator Ekwunife of spreading false claims and involving her children in political disputes. She described the senator’s actions as malicious and warned that legal steps would be taken unless the allegations were withdrawn and an apology rendered within 72 hours.
According to the governor’s wife, a public oath would put to rest any questions of integrity.
“Since Senator Ekwunife claims to be a Catholic convert, I challenge her for both of us to swear an oath of fidelity and chastity in front of the Blessed Sacrament and the Bible. I will swear, with my children present, that in my 55 years, I have known only one man—my husband, Chukwuma Soludo. She should also swear, with her children or her political ambition at stake, that since her marriage she has never been unfaithful,” Mrs. Soludo declared.
She further invited the senator to undergo DNA verification abroad.
“I challenge you, Uche Ekwunife, to a paternity test for our children in three reputable hospitals in London. I will cover all expenses, including travel costs for your family. If the results confirm your husband fathered all your children, I will congratulate you and present you with a cash award,” she said.
Emphasizing her conservative Christian background, the First Lady stated:
“I married my husband as a virgin, and for 33 years, my fidelity to him remains unshaken. I have never worked for government nor depended on public funds, even as First Lady.”
Mrs. Soludo likened her confrontation with Ekwunife to a marathon, insisting she would maintain her defence with dignity and grace.
“My weapons are decency, character, and grace. I am a long-distance runner, and I welcome you to the marathon,” she added.
The exchange between both women stems from Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s earlier questions about Senator Ekwunife’s academic qualifications, which prompted sharp responses from the lawmaker and now a counterattack from the governor’s wife.
By Sunny A. David, Awka
