By Ikemefuna Ozobi
On a bright and historic Saturday, February 8, 2025, the Anambra State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) stepped boldly into the political spotlight, unveiling a magnificent new secretariat. With pomp and pageantry befitting a moment of rebirth, the party faithful thronged Awka, the state capital, to witness the commissioning of the edifice, which symbolises a renewed commitment to capturing the governorship seat come November 8, 2025.
The event presided over by the APC’s National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, was not just the inauguration of a building but the rallying cry for an ambitious march toward Agu Awka. In the charged atmosphere, adorned with the colours and energy of party supporters, Ganduje underscored the APC’s mission: to connect Anambra and the Southeast to the national governance grid.
“You are the most nationalistic people in Nigeria,” Ganduje declared, referencing the enterprising spirit of the Igbo people. “Yet, politically, you are under rural electrification, running on generators. This is unacceptable. It’s time to plug into the national grid, to claim the dividends of being Nigerian.”
The new secretariat, a beacon of the APC’s renewed strength in the state, was donated and equipped by Sir Paul Chukwuma, a frontline governorship aspirant and a cornerstone of the party’s renaissance in Anambra. The facility represents more than a structure; it is the culmination of Chukwuma’s deliberate efforts to transform the APC into a formidable political force capable of dislodging the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
Sir Paul Chukwuma’s journey to revitalising the APC in Anambra began in earnest after the 2023 general elections. Chukwuma, a founding member and former National Working Committee (NWC) member launched an ambitious rebranding campaign with the party on life support. He focused on reinvigorating the party’s structures, from the state level to local wards, ensuring the APC became a viable alternative to APGA’s dominance. Bold actions and significant investments have marked Chukwuma’s leadership. Beyond donating the state secretariat, he funded the establishment of offices in all 21 local government areas and provided financial support to sustain the party’s activities. In 2024, he made an unprecedented N100 million donation to the APC, further solidifying his commitment to its growth. He also gifted the party’s youth wing a brand-new Toyota Hiace bus, marking the first time the group had an official vehicle.
These efforts paid dividends, with the APC witnessing a surge in membership, including high-profile defections from other parties. Where others saw a struggling organisation, Chukwuma saw potential – a home worth saving and strengthening. Today, the APC in Anambra is no longer a fringe player but a serious contender for the governorship.
The National Secretary of the APC, Senator Ajibola Bashiru, was unambiguous in the party’s intentions. Addressing the gathering, he likened their mission to a football match: “We have issued Governor Chukwuma Soludo a yellow card today. On November 8, we will follow it with a red card. APC is ready to take Anambra.”
This message resonated with the crowd, which erupted in chants of solidarity and commitment to the party’s cause. The governorship aspirants— Paul Chukwuma, Obiora Okonkwo, Nicholas Ukachukwu, Chukwuma Umeoji, and Johnbosco Onunkwo – pledged to deliver victory for the APC, showcasing their readiness to unite behind whoever clinches the party’s ticket.
While all aspirants displayed their strengths, Chukwuma stood out for his charisma and compelling promises. “Today marks the beginning of victory for the APC in Anambra,” Chukwuma proclaimed. “If entrusted with the ticket, I will deliver Agu Awka to our party.”
As the APC charts its path toward the November 8 governorship election, the stakes could not be higher. For the first time in years, the party’s chances appear promising, buoyed by strong leadership, strategic planning, and a reinvigorated base. Dr. Ganduje’s call for unity and focus was clear: “We must have plans and vision. Anambra APC knows where it is going – straight to the Government House.”
The journey is far from over, but the momentum is undeniable. Sir Paul Chukwuma’s efforts have reshaped the APC’s narrative in Anambra, transforming it into a party of promise and possibility. As the primary elections approach, the focus will inevitably turn to leadership. Many within the APC believe that Chukwuma, the architect of this renaissance, is best positioned to lead the charge against APGA. In Ganduje’s words, “We are here to connect Anambra to the centre.” With the APC’s newfound confidence and unity, November 8, 2025, may well mark the dawn of a new era in Anambra politics. For now, the party is marching forward with its sights set firmly on Agu Awka.
