The Anambra APC’s Declaration of Intent: A Challenge to Governor Soludo’s Leadership
The political landscape of Anambra State is heating up as the All Progressives Congress (APC) sets its sights on the 2025 governorship election. Basil Ejidike, the state chairman of the APC, has issued a bold proclamation: the APC will unseat the incumbent governor, Chukwuma Soludo, come November 8, 2025. Ejidike’s assertion is rooted in his claim that Governor Soludo and his party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), have failed to deliver on their promises to the people of Anambra, particularly in the critical area of security. This declaration was made during a welcoming ceremony for Ejike Madunagu, a former APGA chieftain who recently defected to the APC, further underscoring the APC’s confidence and growing momentum.
Ejidike, represented at the event by Assistant Secretary Chief Sam Oraegbunam, pointed to the escalating insecurity within the state as a primary indicator of Governor Soludo’s alleged shortcomings. He cited the escape of two suspects implicated in the murder of a state lawmaker as a glaring example of the administration’s failure to maintain law and order. He argued that this, coupled with what he termed "financial impositions" on the citizenry, disqualifies Soludo from a second term. Ejidike also emphasized the national reach of the APC, contrasting it with APGA’s regional status. He urged Anambra voters to align with the ruling party at the federal level to ensure the state receives its due share of national development initiatives.
The APC’s strategy appears to be multifaceted, encompassing both criticism of the current administration and the strategic acquisition of influential figures from rival parties. Madunagu’s defection, hailed by the APC as a significant gain, is seen as a testament to the party’s growing appeal. Ejidike highlighted Madunagu’s business acumen and wide network, spanning Abuja, Awka, and Oba, as valuable assets that will bolster the APC’s presence and influence across the state. The party’s leadership expressed confidence that Madunagu’s influence will translate into substantial gains for the APC in the upcoming election.
Augustine Muomaife, the APC zonal chairman for the central region, further solidified the party’s position by emphasizing the importance of aligning with the "Federal might." He argued that Anambra’s progress has been hindered by its association with APGA, a party he considers politically insignificant on the national stage. Muomaife predicted a wave of defections to the APC in the coming years, suggesting a growing disillusionment with APGA’s leadership and a recognition of the APC’s dominance. This assertion underscores the APC’s confidence in its ability to attract key political players and consolidate its power in the region.
Madunagu, in explaining his decision to abandon APGA, echoed the concerns raised by APC leadership, citing the deteriorating security situation as his primary motivation. He expressed frustration with APGA’s inability to provide support for his business interests and emphasized his belief that the APC, as the ruling party at the federal level, is better positioned to deliver the "dividends of democracy" to Anambra State. This personal testimony reinforces the APC’s narrative of APGA’s inadequacy and their own capacity to bring about positive change.
The local APC leadership in Oba ward 1, where Madunagu hails from, expressed enthusiastic support for his defection. Okwudili Maduemesia, the ward chairman, described Madunagu as a "big fish" whose influence and philanthropy will significantly boost the APC’s chances in the upcoming election. Chukwuka Ogochukwu, a woman leader in the ward, reiterated this sentiment, expressing confidence that Madunagu’s presence will be instrumental in securing victory for the APC and ushering in a new era of progress for the state. These local endorsements underscore the APC’s grassroots mobilization efforts and their focus on building a strong foundation of support at the community level. The repeated references to Madunagu as a “big fish” highlight his perceived importance and the strategic value the APC places on his defection. The emphasis on local concerns, like the reported kidnappings during recent rainfall, demonstrate the APC’s attempt to connect with voters on the issues directly impacting their lives. The collective message projects an image of a party gaining momentum, fueled by local support and strategic acquisitions, and poised to challenge the incumbent governor’s authority.
