After months of statewide campaigns and grassroots mobilization, the people of Anambra State head to the polls today, Saturday, November 8, to elect a governor — a decision that will determine the political direction of the state for the next four years.
Out of 2.8 million registered voters, expectations are high for a credible contest. The election features 16 candidates, with analysts predicting a keen race between incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Despite initial fears of insecurity, the state remains largely calm. Areas previously considered unsafe — such as Ihiala, Nnewi South, and Orumba South — have witnessed peaceful rallies and campaign activities, thanks to tightened security under Soludo’s administration.
The Contenders
Chukwuma Soludo (APGA):
The incumbent governor and former CBN boss enters the race as the clear frontrunner. Running on the platform of APGA — the party that has governed Anambra since 2006 — Soludo banks on his track record in road infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security restoration. Political observers say his zoning advantage, favouring the South senatorial district, strengthens his re-election prospects.
Nicholas Ukachukwu (APC):
The businessman-turned-politician mounted a vigorous campaign across all 21 LGAs with Senator Uche Ekwunife as his running mate. Backed by the ruling party at the federal level, Ukachukwu has accused APGA of underperformance, though public sentiment remains mixed.
Paul Chukwuma (YPP):
A former APC chieftain who defected to YPP, Chukwuma has built strong grassroots networks. With Uzu Okagbue, a former Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Willie Obiano, as his running mate, he is seen as one of the election’s dark horses.
John Nwosu (ADC):
An ICT professional from Nnewi, Nwosu defected from the Labour Party due to leadership tussles. His alliance with experienced politicians, including ex-PDP leaders, has added weight to his campaign.
George Moghalu (LP):
The former NIWA DG, also from Nnewi, enjoys quiet support from ex-Governor Peter Obi, though Obi has publicly wished all candidates well. Moghalu’s experience and reputation for discipline have earned him respect among older voters.
Jeff Nweke (AA):
A businessman from Awka, Nweke has campaigned on non-violence and transparent leadership. Though seen as a long-term political player, his message has resonated with young professionals.
Chioma Ifemeludike (AAC):
At 36, the actress and activist from Idemili North represents the voice of a new generation. She has publicly challenged Soludo’s confidence, insisting that voters will “shock the establishment” at the polls.
State Prepares for Polls
INEC confirmed readiness with 5,718 polling units, 6,879 BVAS devices, and over 24,000 ad hoc staff deployed.
Observers, journalists, and election monitors have flooded Awka, with hotels fully booked as accreditation and logistics peaked on Friday.
Political parties also held last-minute meetings to brief agents and mobilize grassroots supporters across wards.
Poll Predicts Soludo’s Edge
A recent survey by the African Development Institute of Research Methodology (ADIRM) projected Soludo to win with 85.7% voter preference, ahead of Ukachukwu (7.6%) and Moghalu (5%).
The poll, conducted between October 1–31, cited visible governance achievements, particularly in infrastructure and education, as key factors behind Soludo’s strong lead.
However, analysts caution that voter turnout and election-day logistics could still affect real results.
“Polls are scientific snapshots, not election results. The ground game in Onitsha, Nnewi, and Awka will decide the day,” one political analyst noted.
Peaceful Outlook
Unlike the 2021 election marred by insecurity, today’s atmosphere appears calm.
Security agencies have mounted checkpoints and announced movement restrictions to ensure order across the 21 LGAs.
Voters are optimistic that today’s exercise will mark a new chapter for the state’s democracy, with many expressing confidence in a transparent process.
