By Ikemefuna Ozobi
The political landscape in Anambra State is undergoing a significant shift, and Sir Paul Chukwuma, a frontline aspirant in the November 2025 gubernatorial election, has emerged as a rallying figure in the evolving equation. The endorsement of his aspirations by the Ikemba Front, the grassroots support group of the late Senator Ifeanyi Uba, on Saturday, underscores his growing appeal and signals a potential reconfiguration of power dynamics in the state. This development solidifies Chukwuma’s credentials as a grassroots politician and reaffirms the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a force to reckon with in Anambra.
The Ikemba Front is not just another political support group; it carries the legacy of the late Senator Ifeanyi Uba, a figure deeply entrenched in Anambra’s grassroots politics. By throwing its weight behind Sir Paul Chukwuma, the group is lending him its expansive network of loyal supporters and a symbolic connection to the late senator’s political philosophy of inclusivity and grassroots mobilisation. This endorsement is a testament to Chukwuma’s ability to unify diverse interest groups and create broad-based alliances. This quality has been instrumental in expanding his reach within the APC and beyond.
Chukwuma’s campaign strategy is rooted in a deep understanding of the political psychology of Anambra’s electorate. Unlike candidates who rely heavily on elite support, Chukwuma has painstakingly cultivated relationships at the grassroots level. His message of inclusive development and empowerment resonates strongly with rural communities, artisans, traders, and youths—the backbone of Anambra’s electorate. The Ikemba Front’s endorsement amplifies this connection, making Chukwuma a credible champion of the people.
Moreover, his ability to bridge the gap between the APC’s national outlook and Anambra’s local realities is another factor that sets him apart. While the APC has traditionally struggled with its perception as an “outsider” party in the state, Chukwuma’s candidacy is gradually eroding this narrative. His grassroots engagement and focus on local issues like insecurity, economic revitalisation, infrastructural development, and youth empowerment gradually position the APC as a viable alternative in the state.
Historically, Anambra has been a bastion of opposition politics, with the APC struggling to make inroads in the state. However, the tide is slowly turning, largely thanks to strategic realignments and Chukwuma’s efforts to expand the party’s grassroots base. The APC’s leadership has also adopted a more pragmatic approach, prioritising local engagement over top-down mandates. This has created an environment where aspirants like Chukwuma can thrive.
The Ikemba Front’s endorsement reflects a broader shift in Anambra’s political calculus. It suggests that previously sceptical groups are now willing to engage with the APC, provided a candidate embodies their aspirations and concerns. Chukwuma fits this mould, combining a grassroots leader’s credibility with a national party’s institutional backing.
Despite these gains, the road to the March primaries and the general election remains fraught with challenges. The APC must navigate internal party dynamics to ensure a united front, while Chukwuma must continue consolidating his grassroots appeal. Additionally, the political terrain in Anambra remains highly competitive, with other parties like the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party retaining significant influence.
The endorsement of Sir Paul Chukwuma by the Ikemba Front is a watershed moment in the race for the APC gubernatorial ticket and a testament to the party’s growing influence in Anambra State. It highlights Chukwuma’s strategic acumen and ability to galvanise grassroots support in a state where such connections often determine electoral outcomes. As the countdown to the March primaries begins, Chukwuma and the APC must capitalise on this momentum, leveraging their grassroots networks to present a united and compelling vision for Anambra’s future. The Ikemba Front’s endorsement is not just a boost for Chukwuma’s candidacy; it signals that the APC is finally finding its footing in Anambra, potentially altering the state’s political trajectory for years.
