By Tony Okafor
The stage is set for a thrilling contest in Anambra State as the All Progressives Congress (APC) has cleared seven billionaire governorship aspirants to contest the party’s primary election.
The aspirants, who have been issued certificates of clearance, are Paul Chukwuma, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, Chukwuma Umeoji, Valentine Ozigbo, Johnbosco Onunkwo, and Edozie Madu.
The primary election, scheduled to hold on April 5, 2025, promises to be a battle royale, with each aspirant bringing their unique strengths and weaknesses to the table.
Notably, Valentine Ozigbo, the newest entrant to the party from the Labour Party, has been granted a waiver by the party to contest the primary election.
This development comes despite advice for a possible consensus candidate.
The APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, announced the clearance of the aspirants in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday.
The APC has also directed all members, including new and old members, in Anambra State to revalidate their membership ahead of the scheduled primary election.
This move is seen as an effort to ensure that only genuine party members participate in the election.
As the primary election approaches, APC members in Anambra State are eagerly watching to see who will emerge victorious and go on to represent the party in the governorship election, facing off against incumbent Governor Prof. Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
The outcome of the APC primary election will determine the fate of the party in the November 8 governorship election.
An observer notes, “It’s going to be a real boom for APC members who would be delegates to the primary elections.
“They will be patronised by all seven cleared billionaire aspirants, I congratulate them in advance. If the unlucky six eventually queue behind the eventual one, the battle may be more keen than we had all thought.”
The APC’s decision to clear all seven aspirants has set the stage for a thrilling contest. Each aspirant is expected to bring their unique strengths and weaknesses to the table.
For instance, Paul Chukwuma, a core party loyalist and grassroots mobilizer, boasts an impressive resume that sets him apart. With his seminary training and vast knowledge of party and general administration, Chukwuma is well-equipped to navigate the complexities of governance.
Moreover, his role in revitalizing the APC in Anambra State cannot be overstated. When many party members deserted the APC, labeling it a “Fulani and Yoruba Party,” Chukwuma stood firm, providing critical support to the party.
Under his leadership, the APC in Anambra State has experienced a resurgence, with Chukwuma single-handedly providing and equipping the state Secretariat, 21 Local Government Area (LGA) offices, and 326 ward offices.
This level of dedication and investment in the party’s infrastructure has earned Chukwuma a reputation as a results-driven leader and beautiful bride.
As the primary election approaches, it is clear that Chukwuma will be a force to be reckoned with.
Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, a renowned entrepreneur, is expected to leverage his vast network and experience to woo delegates.
On the other hand, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, a prominent businessman and philanthropist, is expected to use his vast resources and influence to sway delegates.
Valentine Ozigbo, who has been granted a waiver by the party, is also expected to be a strong contender. So are Johnbosco Onunkwo and Chukwuma Umeoji.
As the primary election approaches, APC members in Anambra State are bracing themselves for an intense battle. Who will emerge victorious and go on to represent the party in the governorship election? Only time will tell.
