Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, a prominent aspirant for the upcoming Anambra State governorship election, formally submitted his completed expression of interest and nomination forms to the All Progressives Congress (APC) national headquarters in Abuja.
His submission marks a significant step toward contesting the party’s primary slated for April 5, 2025.
Accompanied by thousands of enthusiastic supporters who created a carnival-like atmosphere, Okonkwo arrived at the APC secretariat in a procession of buses, drums, and dancing, causing a temporary disruption to traffic on Blantyre Street.
The overwhelming support from his followers underscored the growing anticipation for his candidacy as he prepares for a showdown in the party’s primary and, subsequently, the general election.
Speaking to newsmen at the event, Okonkwo expressed unwavering confidence in his ability to secure both the APC nomination and the governorship seat.
“By the grace of God, we will not only win the APC primary but also the main election on November 8, 2025. We will give Anambra a new lease of life,” he said.
Okonkwo highlighted his unique position as the only aspirant from Anambra Central, the zone where the AC and ACN parties had previously made inroads before their transformation into APC.
“Returning to APC is a homecoming for me, and I am excited to be back,” he stated, emphasizing his past contributions in helping to build the party in the region.
Addressing the issues currently facing the state, Okonkwo criticized the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, stating that under Soludo’s tenure, Anambra has faced immense challenges, particularly with rising insecurity.
“We have only received pain, sorrow, and agony under Governor Soludo. His promises to turn Anambra into another Taiwan or Hong Kong have not materialized, and his late response to security issues is unacceptable,” Okonkwo said. “We will win Anambra for the APC and bring the South East into the APC fold.”
Okonkwo also dismissed rumors about an alleged political pact between Soludo and President Bola Tinubu’s camp regarding the 2027 presidential election.
“Soludo did not work for President Tinubu in the last election; he only worked for himself. The people of Anambra will not be deceived by APGA’s gimmicks anymore,” Okonkwo declared.
Confident in the support of the people and his party, Okonkwo pledged to run a campaign focused on improving the lives of Anambra citizens and securing the state’s future. “With the support of the APC and God’s will, we will restore hope and prosperity to Anambra State,” he concluded.