Chioma Ifemeludike, the African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate for the upcoming Anambra State election, has selected Igboanugo Friday as her running mate. Friday, a Lagos-based businessman and native of Anambra West Local Government Area, was unveiled during a “thank you” event held at Ifemeludike’s hometown in Idemili North Local Government Area. The event served as both an appreciation for the support Ifemeludike received during the party primaries and a platform to introduce her choice of running mate. Ifemeludike emphasized her commitment to focusing on rural development, job creation, industrialization, and women and youth empowerment programs if elected. She positioned herself as a servant leader, contrasting her approach with those focused on monetary gain, and highlighted the AAC as a strong and divinely guided movement under the leadership of Olawole Sowore.
Ifemeludike underscored Friday’s strategic acumen and expressed confidence in their ability to restore good governance to Anambra State. She called for widespread support from the electorate, urging them to back their vision for a better Anambra. Furthermore, Ifemeludike criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Anambra for project inaugurations, characterizing it as extravagant and out of touch with the pressing issues facing the state’s residents. She argued that the projects—a new Governor’s Lodge and Solution Fun City—did not address the critical concerns of insecurity, hunger, and human rights abuses.
Ifemeludike questioned the priorities of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration in inviting the President at a time of widespread hardship. She drew a parallel between the perceived failures of both the state and federal governments in protecting lives and property, suggesting their alliance served vested interests rather than the public good. She expressed concern that the timing of the visit could be an attempt to influence the November election, and she urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a free and fair electoral process.
Ifemeludike’s critique of the project inaugurations highlights a broader debate about government spending and priorities. In her view, allocating resources to projects like a new Governor’s Lodge and an entertainment city sends the wrong message when citizens are grappling with basic needs and safety concerns. Her argument resonates with a segment of the population that feels neglected by the government and prioritizes tangible solutions to immediate problems over symbolic gestures. This perspective positions Ifemeludike as a candidate attuned to the struggles of ordinary people and willing to challenge established power structures.
The AAC candidate’s selection of Igboanugo Friday as her running mate is a strategic move to broaden her appeal and strengthen her campaign. By choosing someone with business experience and roots in a different local government area, Ifemeludike aims to create a balanced ticket that represents diverse interests within Anambra State. Friday’s acceptance speech reinforced this message, emphasizing his commitment to working alongside Ifemeludike to bring about positive change. The endorsements from community leaders in Eziowelle further solidified the campaign’s local support base and demonstrated Ifemeludike’s strong ties to her community.
The upcoming gubernatorial election in Anambra State is shaping up to be a contest between established political forces and emerging voices like Chioma Ifemeludike. Her campaign message focuses on addressing the core needs of the people, challenging the status quo, and promoting good governance. The selection of Igboanugo Friday as her running mate, the criticisms of government spending priorities, and the endorsements from community leaders all contribute to a developing narrative that positions Ifemeludike as a viable alternative to the existing political establishment. The success of her campaign will depend on her ability to resonate with a broader electorate and convince voters that she offers a genuine path towards a better future for Anambra State.
