The first lady of Anambra State, Nonye Soludo has berated the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), senator Uche Ekwunife, over what she described as malicious allegations” against her family.

Recall that Ekwunife had alleged that Governor Chukwuma Soludo and his wife were part of the administration of late Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju between 1999 and 2003.

Ekwunife stated this while reacting to reports that her academic qualifications were questionable.

Speaking via a statement on Saturday, Soludo dared Ekwunife to a public oath and DNA tests on her children.

She warned that legal actions would be taken against the Senator if she does not withdrew her claims and apologised within 72 hours.

Soludo said, “For starters, let me repeat three verifiable facts. One, I have never worked for anyone in my life. I have been a professional and an entrepreneur all my adult life. Two, I never met Dr. Mbadinuju of blessed memory in my life. Three, in my 55 years on planet earth, I have known only one man, Chukwuma Soludo.

The First Lady further issued a challenge to Ekwunife, “Since she claims to be a converted Catholic, I challenge her and both of us to swear an oath of fidelity and chastity at any Cathedral in front of the Blessed Sacrament. I will also swear with my children that I have known only one man, Chukwuma Soludo,” she added.

She also proposed DNA tests for both families, to be conducted in three reputable hospitals in London, stressing that she would bear all expenses.

“As a businesswoman, I will pay for your and your family’s travels as well as for the tests. If, after the tests, it is confirmed that your husband is the father of all your children, I will congratulate you with a cash award. I can confirm that my family is ready for this test at any moment of your choice,” she stated.

Soludo concluded by urging Ekwunife to recant her statements and tender an unreserved apology within 72 hours, warning that her lawyers had been notified in preparation for possible legal action.

However, in reaction to the development, Ekwunife, in a statement released on Saturday, stated she gave a “friendly advice” to Soludo.

Ekwunife noted, “Mrs. Soludo does not owe me any explanation regarding personal family matters. If my statement caused any discomfort to Mrs. Soludo, she owes her husband an explanation, not me.”

She further stated, “Challenging me to respond or undergo tests does not involve me, as I am not part of her family affairs. She should focus on addressing any concerns with her husband.”