By Ikemefuna Ozobi
As the race for the Anambra APC gubernatorial ticket gathers momentum ahead of the April 5, 2025, primaries, familiar faces – some loyal, others opportunistic – have resurfaced. The APC, once dismissed as a non-contender in the state, has suddenly become the main opposition party. But this resurgence was neither accidental nor the work of the so-called “food-is-ready” politicians who now jostle for relevance. It resulted from years of sacrifice, and focus spearheaded by one man – Sir Paul Chukwuma.
APC in Anambra was left in ruins after the party’s disappointing performance in the 2021 election. Disillusioned by defeat, key stakeholders abandoned the ship, while party members were stranded without leadership or direction. The party was in limbo for a long time, with little to show in terms of structure or visibility. But while many deserted, Paul Chukwuma stayed. Rather than watch the party fade into oblivion, he took it upon himself to rebuild.
He activated all 326 wards single-handedly, injecting life into the party through strategic engagements, massive billboards, and media presence. With no assurances of personal gain, he carried the burden of keeping the APC relevant in Anambra while others watched from a distance. The result? A party that is now thriving – one that has attracted an influx of aspirants seeking its platform.
But herein lies the dilemma. Should the APC reward those who stood by it through thick and thin, or should it hand over its future to political nomads whose only contribution is hopping from one party to another in search of personal advantage? These are the same politicians who vanish when the party faces challenges, only to return when the coast is clear. They gather no moss, leave no legacy, and owe no loyalty.
Some of these political travellers are arguing weakly against Paul Chukwuma’s candidacy. One of the most absurd claims is that an Umueri man should not govern because an Aguleri man has. This is a desperate attempt to stoke unnecessary divisions. Leadership is not about geography but about capacity, vision, and the ability to deliver. Those who lack content rely on the sentiments of geography. No one in this race has demonstrated more commitment to the APC and Anambra’s progress than Sir Paul.
Even if zoning were to even be considered – without conceding to its illlogic – Paul Chukwuma, from Anambra North, remains a viable contender. Anambra Central and Anambra South have had their fair share of leadership, while Anambra North last produced a governor in 2022. If fairness is the argument, it must apply to all zones, not selectively.
Anambra must reject outdated zoning sentiments, just as the South West has done. There, leaders are chosen based on competence, not artificial boundaries. A politician can serve in Lagos today and continue in Ogun tomorrow, carrying forward experience and expertise. The South East must learn this lesson—what matters is a leader’s ability, not where they come from. Imo State proves that. One zone has produced governors for over two decades without disruption because the electorate prioritises governance over zoning.
At this defining moment, the APC must send a clear message: loyalty, dedication, and competence matter. The party cannot afford to be a platform for political nomads who see it as nothing more than a stepping stone. Paul Chukwuma has been there through the tough times. From South-East Youth Leader to National Auditor, his rise in the party reflects years of hard work and resilience.
As the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) begins the screening of the aspirants next week Friday, March 7, 2025, the choice before it is clear. Should the APC reward genuine loyalty and ensure a sustainable future, or should it open its doors to political travellers who will abandon ship at the first sign of trouble? If the APC is serious about winning in November and transforming Anambra, there is only one logical path: supporting Paul Chukwuma’s aspirations.
