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Anambra Decides: Soludo, Moghalu, Ukachukwu, Ezenwafor, Ifemeludike, Others Go for Broke

Published

4 months ago

November 8, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

For the people of Anambra, who represent themselves more as Ndi Anambra, the stage is set to either sustain a four years tempo, or unleash a completely new form of administration.

The date is November 8, and the stage is the over 5000 polling units scattered across the 21 local government areas of the state with about 16 political actors, including the incumbent, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, seeking the people’s vote to either continue in office or be replaced by a fresh hand.

However, among the jostlers for the top Anambra job are contenders and pretenders. This is because not all the candidates, who are on the ballot paper would make the needed impact. Most of them, according to reports, are yet to criss-cross the nooks and crannies of the state in campaign, and relatively unknown. Some others have also leveraged on the popularity of their political parties to gain attention much as a lot is still desired of them.

The Anambra election on face value, is beyond rhetoric and queuing of voters, it is a statement of legitimacy and superiority, especially as it is coming at a time when almost all political player and political parties are morphing into the APC.

As it stands, APGA’s life is Anambra, and a shift in the narrative will mean a death and dearth of the party. Consequently, the party is poised beyond variables, to sustain its hold on the state.

It is also worth noting that as at the present, PDP has practically gone extinct in the south-east with the recent defection of Peter Mbah of Enugu State to the APC. It could be recalled that the region has been a PDP state from inception until the Supreme sacked Emeka Ihedioha as governor, and ordered the swearing in of Hope Uzodinma of the APC, who came a distant 4th in the 2019 election. Then Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State defected to the APC. In the 2023 election, the party lost to Alex Otti of the Labour Party. The party will want to use the opportunity to reestablish his presence in the region.

The APC, on the hand would not want to fail President Tinubu, who everybody has been struggling to please. But with Tinubu’s conspicuous absence during the campaign, it appears there are more in the bargain to giving the APC at the polls.

In all, the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), appears to still hold the aces as far as today’s election is concerned. The party has remained dominant in the south-east state ever since Peter Obi won the governorship election under the APGA platform. Obiano followed suit before Soludo took the reins. APGA has remained Anambra party in over two decades.

Other parties, which are hoping to register their presence in the battle for the soul of Awka Government House are the All Progressives Congress (APC), with their dependence on federal might to muzzle and muscle the others, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), whose house is completely in disarray with two factions at the national level amid a chequered forthcoming National Convention. There’s also the Labour Party (LP), the Young People’s Party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Sowore’s African Action Congress (AAC) and many other political platforms.

In an analysis done by a sister online platform, TheCable, the following are the analysis of the chances of some of the candidates as voting go underway with over 45,000 police personnel, excluding other security agencies, on ground, to ensure nothing goes wrong

CHARLES CHUKWUMA SOLUDO (APGA)

The incumbent governor is seeking re-election on the strength of what his administration describes as achievements in economic management and infrastructure delivery.

Soludo is an economist, former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, and a professor with a first-class degree, master’s, and doctorate from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

His highlights of his administration include budgeting reforms, investment drives, and infrastructure projects, which Soludo frames as part of his “changing gears” development agenda.

Supporters point to his technocratic background and international networks as strengths that help attract projects and investors to the state.

Critics, however, fault his government, particularly over the state’s lingering insecurity challenges. While the administration declared significant improvements, sporadic incidents of violence and unrest continue to challenge the government’s assertion that insecurity has been nearly eradicated.

NICHOLAS UKACHUKWU (APC)

The APC governorship candidate for the Anambra election has pledged inclusive development across “all 179 communities” of the state.

Ukachukwu began his political career in 1997 when he was elected executive chairman of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC). In 1999, he was elected to the house of representatives, representing the AMAC/Bwari federal constituency under the PDP, serving until 2003.

After unsuccessful governorship bids under the Progressive Peoples Alliance (PPA) in 2006 and the Hope Democratic Party (HDP) in 2010, he clinched the APC ticket following his victory at the party’s primary in April 2025. He is from Osumenyi, Nnewi south LGA, and holds the traditional title Ikukuoma Ndi Igbo.

His campaign emphasises job creation, industrialisation, security improvement, and a shift from being a “political godfather” to a “father” of the people.

His critics, however, question his political experience, particularly in Anambra, where he has never held public office.

JUDE EZENWAFOR (PDP)

Ezenwafor is the PDP governorship candidate in the contest, and his name was officially submitted by the party to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) along with his running mate in May.

He is an Abuja-based real estate developer who emerged unopposed as PDP’s flag-bearer and has described his nomination as “divine” and mandate-driven.

Ezenwafor frames his campaign around the regeneration of the state, inclusive growth, and restoration of hope for Anambra’s citizens. He also pledged to make Anambra a thriving economic hub, promising that he has “a secret” or “magic wand” to turn the state’s fortunes around and make many citizens millionaires during his tenure.

Ezenwafor is not new to Anambra politics. He previously served as senior special assistant to Willie Obiano, a former governor of the state, and held a similar role on political matters under former governor Peter Obi. His political trajectory also includes a stint as state chairman of the LP before joining the PDP.

In July, Ezenwafor was shot by unknown gunmen in Abuja and hospitalised.

GEORGE MOGHALU (LP)

The LP candidate is a former managing director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and served previously as the national auditor of the APC.

He was nominated by the LP in April 2025 and launched his campaign by promising to restore confidence in governance, accountability, and service delivery.

Moghalu presents his candidacy as a technocratic alternative, emphasising infrastructure development, disciplined public service, and a break from patronage politics.

His candidacy has received strong support from the Obidient Movement, which praised him as a “colossus of integrity, a titan of competence, and a relentless warrior for the voiceless masses”.

His appeal lies partly in his public service credentials and middle-ground positioning between the major parties.

CHIOMA IFEMELUDIKE (AAC)

Ifemeludike is the only woman among the major candidates.

The former Nollywood actress, producer, and activist has launched a grassroots campaign targeting youth empowerment, talent hunting, and inclusion of marginalised groups.

She was described by AAC national figures as a “rising star” for Anambra and aims to bring fresh energy and reform-oriented leadership.

She has also protested what she terms discriminatory campaign fees and is positing her race as one of change rather than continuity.

Dismissing claims of inexperience, Ifemeludike, in a recent interview, pointed to her political background: her history as a “female unionist” and her tenure as AAC chairperson.

PAUL CHUKWUMA (YPP)

The YPP governorship candidate for the Anambra election is a businessman-entrepreneur turned politician from Ihiala.

He emerged as a YPP candidate after leaving the APC aspirant race. Chukwuma has pledged to focus on insecurity, business revival and tax relief for MSMEs.

As the pro-chancellor of Olivia University in Burundi, Chukwuma brings academic leadership experience to his political pursuits.

He pledged to address insecurity decisively within the first six months of his administration, stating that peace is the bedrock of sustainable development. His economic agenda includes enhancing local business development, creating meaningful employment opportunities, and attracting investment to the state.

Chukwuma presents himself as a pragmatic alternative candidate bridging private-sector experience and public service ambitions.

CHUMA NWOSU (ADC)

The ADC governorship candidate for the poll has been touring the state, promising a one-term governance mandate alongside job creation and anti-corruption commitments.

Nwosu’s campaign is grassroots-focused, engaging communities, markets, and villages directly with a message centred on transparency, inclusion, and results-oriented leadership.

He has vowed to restore security, introduce e-governance, and revive Anambra’s economy if elected

He has also been very vocal against vote-buying and voter apathy, believing that a change is possible if the electorate rejects corrupt practices.

His candidacy is seen as a hopeful departure from “business-as-usual” politics, aiming to reposition Anambra state towards strategic growth and responsive governance.

THE OUTCOME

The outcome of today’s election will determine whether Soludo will consolidate what he and his supporters believe are his progress and achievements, or on the other hand usher in an all new trajectory to begin a fresh roadmap to the the same destination; welfate and security of Ndi Anambra.

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Court Validates PDP 2025 Convention in Ibadan, Affirms Turaki-led NWC

Published

4 hours ago

February 27, 2026

Eric

The Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan has affirmed the validity of the 2025 Elective Convention of the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP), which produced Dr. Kabiru Turaki as the substantive National Chairman of the party.

Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Ladiran Akintola upheld the convention in its entirety, ruling that it was conducted in full compliance with the relevant constitutional and statutory provisions governing party elections in Nigeria.

The decision marked a significant legal victory for the party’s leadership and brought clarity to the dispute surrounding the convention’s legitimacy.

The ruling followed an amended originating summons filed by Misibau Adetunmbi (SAN) on behalf of the claimant, Folahan Malomo Adelabi, in Suit No. I/1336/2025.

In a comprehensive judgment, the court granted all 13 reliefs sought by the claimant, effectively endorsing the processes and outcomes of the Ibadan convention.

Justice Akintola held that the convention, organised by the recognised leadership of the party, satisfied all laid-down legal requirements as stipulated in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended), and the relevant provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.

The court found no breach of due process or statutory non-compliance in the conduct of the exercise.

In the same proceedings, the court dismissed the Motion on Notice seeking a stay of proceedings and suspension of the ruling, filed by Sunday Ibrahim (SAN) on behalf of Austin Nwachukwu and two others. The applications were described as lacking merit.

Earlier in the proceedings, the court had also rejected a bid by Ibrahim to have his clients joined in the suit.

Justice Akintola ruled at the time that the joinder application was unsubstantiated and consequently dismissed it.

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Opposition Parties Reject 2026 Electoral Act, Demand Fresh Amendment

Published

1 day ago

February 26, 2026

Eric

Opposition political parties have rejected the 2026 Electoral Act recently passed by the National Assembly, which President Bola Tinubu swiftly signed into law.

The parties called on the National Assembly to immediately begin a fresh amendment process to remove what they described as “all obnoxious provisions” in the law.

Their position was made known at a press briefing themed “Urgent Call to Save Nigeria’s Democracy,” held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja on Thursday.

In a communiqué read by the Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) Ahmed Ajuji, the opposition leaders stated:

“We demand that the National Assembly immediately commence a fresh amendment to the Electoral Act 2026, to remove all obnoxious provisions and ensure that the Act reflects only the will and aspiration of Nigerians for free, fair, transparent and credible electoral process in our country. Nothing short of this will be acceptable to Nigerians.”

Some of the opposition leaders present in at the event include former Senate President David Mark; former Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola; former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; former Governor of Rivers State, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi; and former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, all from the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The National Chairman of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Ahmed Ajuji, and other prominent members of the NNPP, notably Buba Galadima, were also in attendance.

The coalition said the amended law, signed by Bola Tinubu, contains “anti-democratic” clauses, which they argue may weaken electoral transparency and public confidence in the voting system.

At the centre of the opposition’s concerns is the amendment to Section 60(3), which allows presiding officers to rely on manual transmission of election results where there is communication failure.

According to the coalition, the provision weakens the mandatory electronic transmission of results and could create loopholes for manipulation.

They argued that Nigeria’s electoral technology infrastructure is sufficient to support nationwide electronic transmission, citing previous assurances by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The parties also rejected the amendment to Section 84, which restricts political parties to direct primaries and consensus methods for candidate selection.

They described the change as an unconstitutional intrusion into the internal affairs of parties, insisting that indirect primaries remain a legitimate democratic option.

The opposition cited alleged irregularities in the recent Federal Capital Territory local government elections as evidence of what they described as a broader pattern of electoral compromise.

They characterised the polls as a “complete fraud” and said the outcome has deepened their lack of confidence in the ability of the electoral system to deliver credible elections in 2027.

The coalition also condemned reported attacks on leaders of the African Democratic Congress in Edo State, describing the incidents as a serious threat to democratic participation and political tolerance.

They warned that increasing violence against opposition figures could destabilise the political environment if not urgently addressed.

In their joint statement, the opposition parties pledged to pursue “every constitutional means” to challenge the Electoral Act 2026 and safeguard voters’ rights.

“We will not be intimidated,” the leaders said, urging civil society organisations and citizens to support efforts aimed at protecting Nigeria’s democratic system.

On February 18, 2026, President Bola Tinubu signed the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026 into law following its passage by the National Assembly. The Act introduced several reforms, including statutory recognition of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System and revised election timelines.

However, opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have also called for further amendments, particularly over the manual transmission fallback clause, which critics say leaves room for manipulation.

The president said the law will strengthen democracy and prevent voter disenfranchisement.

Tinubu defended manual collation of results, questioned Nigeria’s readiness for full real-time electronic transmission, and warned against technical glitches and hacking.

The Electoral Act sparked intense debate in the National Assembly over how election results should be transmitted ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Civil society groups under the “Occupy NASS” campaign demanded real-time transmission to curb manipulation.

In the Senate, lawmakers clashed during consideration of Clause 60, which allows manual transmission of results if electronic transmission fails.

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe (ADC, Abia South) demanded a formal vote to remove the proviso permitting manual transmission, arguing against weakening real-time electronic reporting.

The move led to a heated exchange on the floor, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio initially suggesting the demand had been withdrawn.

After procedural disputes and a brief confrontation among senators, a division was conducted. Fifteen opposition senators voted against retaining the manual transmission proviso, while 55 supported it, allowing the clause to stand.

Earlier proceedings had briefly stalled during clause-by-clause review, prompting consultations and a closed-door session.

In the House of Representatives, a similar disagreement came up over a motion to rescind an earlier decision that mandated compulsory real-time electronic transmission of results to IReV.

Although the “nays” were louder during a voice vote, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas ruled in favour of rescinding the decision, triggering protests and an executive session.

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AFP: How Tinubu’s Govt Paid Boko Haram ‘Huge’ Ransom, Released Two Terrorists for Kidnapped Saint Mary’s Pupils

Published

3 days ago

February 24, 2026

Eric

The Nigerian government paid Boko Haram militants a “huge” ransom of millions of dollars to free up to 230 children and staff the jihadists abducted from a Catholic school in November, an AFP investigation revealed Monday.

Two Boko Haram commanders were also freed as part of the deal, which goes against the country’s own law banning payments to kidnappers. The money was delivered by helicopter to Boko Haram’s Gwoza stronghold in northeastern Borno state on the border with Cameroon, intelligence sources told AFP.

The decision to pay the militants is likely to irritate US President Donald Trump, who ordered air strikes on jihadists in northern Nigeria on Christmas Day and has been sent military trainers to help support Nigerian forces.

Nigerian government officials deny any ransom was paid to the armed gang that snatched close to 300 schoolchildren and staff from St. Mary’s boarding school in Papiri in central Niger state on November 21. At least 50 later managed to escape their captors.

Boko Haram has not been previously linked to the kidnapping, but sources told AFP one of its most feared commanders was behind the mass abduction: the notorious jihadist known as Sadiku.

He infamously held up a train from the capital in 2022 and netted hefty ransoms for the release of government officials and other well-off passengers.

Boko Haram, which has waged a bloody insurgency since 2009, is strongest in northeast Nigeria.

But a cell in central Niger state operates under Sadiku’s leadership. The St. Mary’s pupils and staff were freed after two weeks of negotiations led by Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, with the government insisting no ransom was paid. Nigeria’s State Security Service flatly denied paying any money, saying “government agents don’t pay ransoms”.

However, four intelligence sources familiar with the talks told AFP the government paid a “huge” ransom to get the pupils back. One source put it at 40 million naira per head – around $7 million in total.

Another put the figure lower at two billion naira overall. The money was delivered by chopper to Ali Ngulde, a Boko Haram commander in the northeast, three sources told AFP.

Due to the lack of communications cover in the remote area, Ngulde had to cross into Cameroon to confirm delivery of the ransom before the first group of 100 children were released.

Nigeria has long been plagued by mass abductions, with criminals and jihadist groups sometimes working together to extort millions from hostages’ families, and authorities seemingly powerless to stop them.

Source: Africanews