Anambra November 8 Poll: The Quartet Soludo Must Watch — History Beckons

By TONY OKAFOR, AWKA

As Anambra prepares for its November 8 governorship election, attention is shifting to the leading contenders in the race for the state’s top seat. The contest is expected to be intense, given the calibre of candidates vying to occupy the Government House, Awka.

Anambra, known as the Light of the Nation, remains one of Nigeria’s most politically and economically influential states.

With vibrant commercial hubs like Onitsha and Nnewi, a rich cultural heritage, and a history of fiercely competitive politics, its governorship elections often draw national interest.

The state has also produced prominent figures in recent times, including former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.

Since 2006, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has dominated Anambra politics, beginning with Obi, followed by Willie Obiano, and now Charles Soludo. APGA’s staying power rests on its grassroots network and its identity as an Igbo-centric party.

Anambra is also one of Nigeria’s eight “off-cycle” election states, a result of the 2006 court ruling that removed Chris Ngige of the PDP and installed Obi after nearly three years of legal battles. That landmark judgment reshaped the state’s electoral calendar and defined its unique political rhythm.

In this year’s race, four candidates stand out as formidable challengers Soludo and APGA cannot afford to ignore.

Paul Chukwuma (Young Progressives Party – YPP)
Paul Chukwuma, regarded by many as one of the most cerebral contenders, is a businessman, lawyer, technocrat, and former senior seminarian. He is often described as the only candidate who can match Soludo academically.

A former National Auditor of the APC, Chukwuma defected to YPP earlier this year and clinched its ticket unopposed. He previously helped strengthen APC’s structure in Anambra, including funding its state secretariat. His running mate, Uzo Okagbue, a former aide to ex-Governor Willie Obiano, brings additional weight from Anambra Central Senatorial District.

Chukwuma’s campaign has focused on insecurity, over-taxation of small businesses, and declining education standards. He has pledged to deploy the governor’s security votes solely to protect lives and property if elected.

However, YPP’s limited structure compared to APGA leaves him an underdog, though his strong messaging could appeal to disenchanted voters. Notably, he is the only governorship candidate from Anambra North Senatorial District, which has produced just one governor since the state’s creation — a factor that could boost his chances.

John Chuma Nwosu (African Democratic Congress – ADC)
John Chuma Nwosu, an IT expert and global entrepreneur, originally sought the Labour Party ticket before defecting to ADC. His campaign rests on the SHEEEMS platform — Security, Health, Education, Economy, Employment, Manufacturing, and Social Welfare — with a promise to transform Anambra into a digital economy hub.

With his Nnewi roots and urban appeal, Nwosu represents a fresh voice. However, ADC’s weak grassroots base could limit his impact.

George Moghalu (Labour Party – LP)
George Moghalu, a former APC National Auditor, defected to the Labour Party in 2024. He enjoys the “Peter Obi effect,” which saw LP sweep Anambra in the 2023 presidential election.

As a candidate from Anambra South, Moghalu benefits from zoning sentiments and may consolidate votes across Aguata, Orumba, Nnewi, and Ihiala. With LP’s strong youth and urban following, he is expected to put up a strong showing.

Nicholas Ukachukwu (All Progressives Congress – APC)
Nicholas Ukachukwu, a seasoned politician and businessman from Anambra South, emerged victorious over Valentine Ozigbo and others to clinch the APC ticket.

Ukachukwu enjoys access to federal backing from President Bola Tinubu, APC governors, and the party’s national leadership — all determined to “capture Anambra.” His experience as chairman of Abuja Municipal Council and his development initiatives in Anambra South enhance his appeal, particularly in Onitsha and Nnewi, where he is viewed more as a businessman than a career politician.

With these contenders in the field, the November 8 election promises to be one of the most competitive in Anambra’s recent history.

Soludo and APGA may rely on incumbency, but the combined weight of the quartet ensures that the battle for the Government House, Awka will be fiercely contested. History beckons.