Nicholas Ukachukwu has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the upcoming November 8, 2025, governorship election in Anambra State, following a primary election marked by reported violence and disruptions.
Ukachukwu secured a commanding lead with 1,455 votes, far ahead of his main contender, Valentine Ozigbo, who garnered only 67 votes. The delegate accreditation process was allegedly marred by the activities of political thugs, raising concerns about the conduct of the primary.
With this victory, Ukachukwu will now challenge the incumbent governor, Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), who had earlier secured his party’s ticket.
In his acceptance speech, Ukachukwu expressed appreciation to his supporters and the party.
“It is with deep gratitude and humility that I accept the outcome of the APC gubernatorial primaries,” he said. “This victory is not mine alone; it belongs to every man, woman, and youth who believes in the promise of a better tomorrow. Our journey to a greater Anambra has only just begun.”
Ukachukwu also addressed his longstanding influence in Anambra politics.
“I have been playing godfatherism, but now I want to be the father of the father—no more godfather,” he stated. “No one has ever won the governorship of Anambra without my support. This time, we will deliver Anambra to the APC.”
He emphasized his vision for a people-oriented administration focused on progress and unity.
Valentine Ozigbo, who was the PDP candidate in the 2021 gubernatorial election, lost that race to Governor Soludo, who polled 112,229 votes against Ozigbo’s 53,807. Since then, Ozigbo has shifted political platforms, moving to the Labour Party in 2022 before joining the APC in February 2025.
As the November election approaches, all eyes will be on the political landscape in Anambra as Ukachukwu and Soludo prepare for what promises to be a fierce contest.
