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GOVERNOR SOLUDO PLEDGES ACCELERATED DEVELOPMENT AFTER SECURING RE-ELECTION IN ANAMBRA

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has been re-elected as the Governor of Anambra State, with the Independent National Electoral Commission officially declaring him the winner of the governorship election. In his first public address in Isuofia, Governor Soludo extended a hand of fellowship to the 15 other candidates who contested against him, emphasizing unity and inclusiveness. He praised the democratic process and the high voter turnout, thanking the people of Anambra for their trust. “This victory is a collective achievement that reflects the aspirations of our citizens. I am profoundly grateful for the support received from every corner of Anambra State,” he said. Governor Soludo noted that this is the third time a governor has been re-elected in Anambra State, with his administration securing support from 98 percent of the wards. He expressed optimism for the future, stating, “You have not seen anything yet. With this trust, in partnership with ndị Anambra, we will do more.” Looking ahead to the next four years, he affirmed, “We are turning on to gear four, beginning from March 2026,” and thanked the people for renewing his mandate: “Thank you for giving us the opportunity to serve you for another four years.” Governor Soludo acknowledged President Tinubu for ensuring that votes count, saying, “The people spoke very loudly.” He also thanked INEC for their forthrightness and highlighted improvements from the August bye-election, describing the election as “free, fair, and transparent.” In a move to foster cooperation, he extended his hand of fellowship to his 15 opponents, stating, “APGA is still magnanimous in victory.” He thanked the security forces for their role in the electoral process. Reaffirming his commitment, Governor Soludo pledged to address state challenges, including infrastructure, security, and economic opportunities. “The journey begins now, and I am dedicated to ensuring that every resident of Anambra feels the positive impact of our governance,” he declared. As celebrations broke out, his call for unity was viewed as a key step toward political diplomacy and stability, setting a tone for collaborative governance in Anambra State.

SOLUDO SWEEPS ALL 21 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS IN ANAMBRA GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION

The candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has recorded a clean sweep in the Anambra State 2025 governorship election, winning all 21 local government areas. The Independent National Electoral Commission concluded collation early Sunday morning under the supervision of the State Returning Officer, Prof. Edogah Omoregie, Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin. Collation, which was temporarily suspended on Saturday night, resumed at 6 a.m. at the INEC headquarters in Awka. When results from the two remaining LGAs, Anambra West and Ihiala, were announced, Soludo extended his commanding lead. In Ihiala LGA, APGA polled 23,557 votes, far ahead of the APC’s 4,425 and Labour Party’s 135. Similarly, in Anambra West LGA, APGA scored 71,365 votes, leaving APC with 16,595, YPP with 2,871, and ADC with 152. The results confirm Soludo’s dominance across all parts of the state, from the urban centers of Onitsha and Awka to the rural communities of Aguata and Anyamelum. Prof. Edogah Omoregie stated, “The process was transparent and thorough, with APGA emerging victorious in every local government.” The final declaration by INEC is expected later today, but with this overwhelming victory margin, Soludo appears set to secure a second term as Governor of Anambra State under the APGA platform.

SIXTEEN CANDIDATES VIE FOR ANAMBRA GOVERNORSHIP IN OFF-CYCLE ELECTION

The Anambra State off-cycle gubernatorial election is underway today, Saturday, November 8, 2025, with sixteen candidates from various political parties contesting for the seat. The Independent National Electoral Commission has cleared all candidates for the race, which includes prominent figures such as incumbent Governor Soludo Charles of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Ukachukwu Nicholas of the All Progressives Congress, Ezenwafor Jude of the Peoples Democratic Party, Moghalu George of the Labour Party, and Nwosu Chima John of the African Democratic Congress, who are considered the front-runners. An INEC official stated, “We are fully prepared to conduct a smooth and credible election across all polling units.” Over two million registered voters are eligible to cast their ballots in 5,720 polling units across the 21 local government areas of the state. Anambra is one of eight states in Nigeria where elections are held outside the general election timetable, alongside Bayelsa, Kogi, Imo, Osun, Ondo, Edo, and Ekiti. The off-cycle status for Anambra originated from a Court of Appeal ruling on March 17, 2006, which sacked Chris Ngige of the PDP and installed Peter Obi of APGA after a two-year tribunal case. The complete list of candidates includes Onyeeze Chidi of A, Nweke Ezechukwu Japhet of AA, Ifemeludike Chioma Grace of AAC, Nwosu Chima John of ADC, Ukachukwu Nicholas of APC, Soludo Charles of APGA, Otti Cyprian Echezona of APM, Nweke Christopher Chukwudubem of APP, Okeke Chika Jerry of BP, Moghalu George of LP, Onyejgbu Geoffrey of NNPP, Ndidi Christy Olieh of NRM, Ezenwafor Jude of PDP, Chukwurah Vincent of SDP, Chukwuma Paul Chukwuka of YPP, and Ugwoji Uchenna of ZLP.

YPP CANDIDATE ACCUSES GOVERNOR SOLUDO OF ABANDONING GOVERNANCE FOR COMEDY

The Governorship Candidate of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) in Anambra State, Paul Chukwuma, has accused Governor Charles Soludo of abandoning his governance responsibilities for comedy. Chukwuma challenged the governor to focus on protecting citizens from bandits instead of veering into theatrics. In a statement, Chukwuma stated it was time for Soludo to showcase his achievements since assuming office, claiming the governor has not done anything tangible to uplift the standard of living of the people. He emphasized that the people are not entertained by jokes when faced with insecurity, crumbling infrastructure, and a dwindling social life. “The time for comedy is over. Ndi Anambra deserve accountability, not theatrics. Let the governor justify why he deserves a renewal instead of distracting us with clownish performances,” Chukwuma said. Ahead of the election, he described himself as the best candidate with a proven record of competence. He stated, “With his proven record of competence, vision, and integrity, I stand as the quality alternative, one who offers not jokes, but positive change.”

ARMED MEN WREAK HAVOC IN ANAMBRA TOWN, RESIDENTS FLEE IN PANIC

Residents of Ekwulobia in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State were thrown into panic on Wednesday morning as armed men stormed the town, firing gunshots indiscriminately. The attackers, dressed in mafia-style outfits, arrived in Sienna vehicles and unleashed terror, shooting sporadically and causing chaos across the town. Several people sustained injuries, vehicles were set ablaze, and some residents were reportedly killed. Many locals abandoned their homes in search of safety, while security operatives were initially absent. A resident who spoke on condition of anonymity criticized the effectiveness of security operations in the state, blaming the attacks on Biafra agitators. “I advise our people to remain indoors. These attackers are more powerful than all the security outfits combined. Governor Soludo needs to find a lasting solution,” the source said. The resident also suggested that the attack might have been triggered by the governor’s recent comments in the United States, where he reportedly blamed killings and kidnappings on people of Igbo extraction. Meanwhile, the Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that two civilians were killed in the attack, while one of the gunmen was neutralised and four vehicles recovered. According to the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, is on the ground, and security operatives have taken control of the area. “Our Commissioner of Police is a field man. He will not allow hoodlums to overrun Anambra State. Our men have taken control of the area,” Ikenga assured.

APGA’S ENDORSEMENT OF TINUBU RENEWAL OF ZIKIST ALLIANCE

The Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, has announced that the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has officially adopted President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election. Reacting to this development, Mr. Osita Okechukwu described it as a renewal of the Zikist Alliance, a strategic move that echoes the political alliances of the 1950s between Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe and Malam Umaru Altine. According to Okechukwu, this alliance is a masterstroke foundation of Nigeria that needs renewal today, instead of ultra-polarization and ethno-nationalism. “I salute Governor Soludo, this was my position back in 2003 when we elected Rt. Hon. Chuba Okadigbo as President Buhari’s vice presidential candidate; that Ndigbo should neither disengage nor put all their eggs in one PDP’s basket,” Okechukwu said. When asked about the danger of a one-party state, Okechukwu dismissed the hype, maintaining that the All Progressives Congress (APC) doesn’t need a one-party state to win in 2027. “I’m not a fan of one party state, it’s antithetical to democracy. For me sincerely APC doesn’t need one party state to win 2027 general elections. All we need is to advance Gross National Happiness. Didn’t we win 2015, 2019 and 2023 general elections under a multi-party system?” Okechukwu asked. Okechukwu also cautioned the APC leadership not to rest on the euphoria of the gale of defections, anticipating a gruesome electioneering campaign in 2027. “My takeaway lesson in my over 40 years in partisan politics is not to rate any gathering as storm in a teacup. My candid advice to the leadership of my great party, the APC, is not to rest on the euphoria of the gale of defections,” he opined. The development comes as governors from various states are reportedly moving into the APC, with some analysts speculating about the potential implications for the 2027 elections.

GOVERNOR CHUKWUMA SOLUDO EMERGES APGA CANDIDATE FOR 2025 ANAMBRA GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION AFTER UNOPPOSED PRIMARY VICTORY

Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has been declared the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate for the November 8, 2025, Anambra State governorship election following a primary held on Saturday at Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka. Soludo, the sole aspirant, secured the party’s nomination after polling 3,168 “yes” votes from 3,172 valid votes cast by accredited delegates. Chief Returning Officer Uche Nwegbo announced the results, stating that 3,175 delegates were accredited out of 3,260 registered, with four votes invalidated. “In line with INEC guidelines, I hereby declare Prof. Chukwuma Soludo as the duly elected candidate of APGA for the 2025 governorship election,” Nwegbo said. In his acceptance speech, Soludo described the unanimous support as a “historic show of solidarity,” reaffirming his administration’s commitment to Anambra’s development. “Anambra is APGA and APGA is Anambra. We are just getting started—Anambra has not seen anything yet,” he declared. The governor highlighted his first-term achievements, emphasizing that his administration executed projects without borrowing funds and vowed to expand developmental strides in a second term. Soludo also confirmed the re-nomination of Dr. Onyeka Ibezim as his deputy governor, stating, “If it’s not broken, why mend it?” He thanked supporters, party members, INEC observers, and donors, particularly acknowledging contributions from market women and grassroots groups. “This victory is a collective effort, and we will continue working tirelessly for the people,” he concluded.

SOLUDO’S SECURITY INITIATIVE GETS BOOST AS PEACE AND MEDIA ADVOCACY OFFERS SUPPORT

A pan-Nigeria security organization, Peace and Media Advocacy, has thrown its weight behind the security initiative of Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo. The group commended Soludo for signing the Homeland Security Law, which has reportedly energized security operations in the state. In a press statement, Comrade James Okonkwo, initiator of the group, acknowledged the patriotic disposition of members of the Anambra State House of Assembly for fast-tracking the passage of the Homeland Security Bill. Okonkwo described this as “a demonstration of governmental synergy tangential to peace and security in Anambra State.” Peace and Media Advocacy called on Ndi Anambra to be vigilant and supportive of the Soludo Administration’s resolve to make life more secure and meaningful for the people. The group also deplored the opposition’s attempts to politicize the security situation in the state, urging them to desist from such actions. Furthermore, the group appealed to the clergy to rally round the government to improve the security situation in Anambra State. “All leaders of thought, it is incumbent on religious leaders to preach peace and love in Anambra State,” the statement read. Finally, Peace and Media Advocacy called on town unions to resuscitate vigilantes in their various communities, stating that this would go a long way in boosting peace and security in Anambra State. This development comes as Governor Soludo launches “Operation Udo Ga-Achi,” a special security initiative aimed at tackling crime and insecurity in the state.

CIVIL SOCIETY GROUP PETITIONS FEDERAL MINISTRY OF FINANCE OVER SECURITY VOTE TRANSPARENCY

The Leadership and Accountability Initiative, a renowned civil society organization, has petitioned the Federal Ministry of Finance to provide detailed information on security votes disbursed to Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State since he assumed office on March 17, 2022. The petition, signed by the Head of Administration, Abraham Momodu, seeks to determine the exact amount released as security votes to Governor Soludo, including the dates of disbursement and details of other special security financial interventions by the federal government to the state. “The public has the right to know how taxpayers’ money is being spent, especially when it comes to funds allocated for sensitive matters such as security,” said Hon. Henry Shield, the Head of Mission for the group. Shield emphasized that security votes are meant to enhance the security and well-being of citizens, and it is only fair that the citizens of Anambra, and indeed Nigerians, are informed about how these resources are being managed. The petition was submitted under the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, 2011, which guarantees the public’s right to access government-held information. The FOI Act mandates that the Ministry responds to the request within seven working days. Should there be any charges for processing this request, the group has pledged to cover the necessary costs. Abraham Momodu noted that the group’s petition follows growing calls from citizens and stakeholders for increased transparency in the management of public funds, particularly security-related allocations that often remain shrouded in secrecy. By seeking clarity on the security votes, the group aims to ensure that these funds are used appropriately and for their intended purpose. “This is not just a call for transparency in Anambra State, but a reminder to all levels of government that the people must have access to information on how public resources are utilized. We will continue to push for accountability across all tiers of government,” Henry Shield added. The group has pledged to follow up on the petition and will continue to engage with the public to ensure that government actions align with the principles of openness and public service. Abraham Momodu reiterated that the Leadership and Accountability Initiative is committed to promoting good governance, human rights, and accountability in Nigeria.

SOLUDO OFFERS N10M BOUNTY FOR EACH PERPETRATOR OF ANAMBRA ATTACK

Governor Charles Soludo of Anambra State, has announced a bounty of N10 million for each of the perpetrators of the December 30, 2024, attack on security operatives and innocent civilians during a burial ceremony in Ihiala Town, in Ihiala Local Government Area of the state. Gov. Soludo, announced the N10 million bounty when he visited the wife of one of the victims, Bridget Onuchukwu, expressed his heartfelt sorrow over the loss of life following the deadly attack, which resulted in the death of nine people, including two security operatives. “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of the victims and I want to assure this community that those responsible for this violent act will be brought to justice. “We will not rest until the perpetrators of this heinous crime are apprehended. All of them will pay for it. We are on their trail as we speak. Anybody that will avail us information that will lead to their arrest will be appreciated. “Ihiala security is currently being discussed and will be unveiled soon,” he said. Addressing a town hall meeting during the visit, the governor rained curses on the gunmen who carried out the attack and killings in the council area. “I am saying on behalf of Anambra State that all the people who carried out this attack and killings, their generations will never see good things. “They, their children and all their supporters will not witness good things. Communities must fight now because the perpetrators of this evil are within the local government. All security operatives should come out of their offices and fish them out. “Whatever needs to be done would be sponsored by the government, l announce a bounty of N10 million on each of the criminal,” the governor said in Igbo Language. Meanwhile, the state police command in a statement, said the attackers began shooting sporadically when they arrived at a venue where preparations were ongoing for a burial ceremony slated for January 2, 2025.