The political landscape in Anambra State is heating up as the November 8, 2025, governorship election draws closer. Three major parties – the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Labour Party (LP) – have concluded their primaries, solidifying their candidates for the upcoming race. Incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo secured the APGA ticket unopposed, reaffirming his party’s unwavering support. Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu emerged victorious from a fiercely contested APC primary, while George Moughalu clinched the LP nomination. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), however, postponed its primary, citing the need to finalize administrative procedures and ensure a seamless exercise. This delay sets the stage for a potentially more intense competition as the PDP strategizes its candidate selection process.
Governor Soludo’s unopposed nomination underscores his strong standing within APGA. The overwhelming support from over 3,260 delegates demonstrates the party’s confidence in his leadership and his commitment to continuing the “progressive leadership” that APGA claims to represent. Soludo’s acceptance speech emphasized his dedication to serving both the party and the people of Anambra State, highlighting his belief in the symbiotic relationship between APGA and the state. This unity within APGA provides a solid foundation for Soludo’s campaign as he seeks to retain his governorship.
The APC primary, unlike APGA’s smooth process, was marked by initial chaos and violence during accreditation. However, the eventual outcome saw Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu triumph over his rivals, including prominent figures like Valentine Ozigbo. Ukachukwu’s victory speech emphasized his extensive experience in Anambra politics, portraying himself as a seasoned player and even a former “kingmaker” now ready to take the reins of power himself. He extended a call for unity within the party, urging his fellow contestants to rally behind his candidacy and work towards securing Anambra for the APC. This appeal for cohesion suggests a strategic move to consolidate party strength and present a united front against their rivals.
George Moughalu’s emergence as the LP candidate further diversifies the field of contenders. Moughalu, a former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority, secured a decisive victory in the LP primary, demonstrating his popularity within the party. His acceptance speech highlighted the Labour Party’s agenda of working for the benefit of all Anambra people, emphasizing the need for a level playing field and harnessing the state’s potential. Moughalu’s focus on rebuilding the state and giving a voice to the people positions him as a potential advocate for change and a challenger to the established political order.
The PDP’s postponement of its primary introduces an element of suspense into the unfolding political drama. While the party cites administrative reasons for the delay, it also presents an opportunity for the PDP to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the declared candidates from other parties. This strategic pause could allow the PDP to select a candidate best positioned to challenge the frontrunners and potentially disrupt the existing political landscape. The PDP’s eventual choice will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the dynamics of the upcoming election.
The Anambra governorship election is shaping up to be a contest of contrasting political narratives and personalities. Soludo’s incumbency and APGA’s established presence in the state provide a strong base of support. Ukachukwu’s political experience and appeal for APC unity position him as a formidable challenger. Moughalu’s focus on empowering the people and rebuilding the state offers a distinct alternative. And the PDP’s yet-to-be-determined candidate adds another layer of complexity to the race. As the election draws nearer, the interplay of these forces will undoubtedly captivate the attention of Anambra’s electorate and determine the future direction of the state.
