Hobnob News – Awka:
The governorship primary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State on Saturday descended into chaos, marred by delays, logistical confusion, and allegations of gross irregularities, sparking outrage among aspirants and stakeholders.
Despite being scheduled to commence at 9:00 am, accreditation of delegates was still ongoing as late as 7:00 pm, casting a shadow over the credibility of the exercise. The unfolding confusion led to the withdrawal of three leading aspirants—Sir Paul Chukwuma, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, and Chief Chukwuma Umeoji—who all decried the lack of transparency in the process.
In a dramatic turn, Chukwuma not only withdrew from the race but also resigned from the APC, citing deep dissatisfaction with the integrity of the electoral process.
The remaining contenders—Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, Mr. Valentine Ozigbo, Engr. Johnbosco Onunkwo, and Hon. Edozie Madu—are all from the Anambra South Senatorial Zone, which is also the home zone of the incumbent governor, Charles Chukwuma Soludo.
Eyewitness reports revealed that many supposed delegates were kept in secluded hotels across Awka, while the authentic delegate list remained unclear. At the official venue, the Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, large crowds gathered for hours, but no voting was observed as of 6:30 pm.
Sources within the party alleged that accreditation was being conducted secretly at undisclosed locations, sparking concerns over manipulation and lack of oversight.
The situation escalated further when thugs reportedly hired by one of the aspirants launched an attack on delegates, leaving some injured in an apparent bid to disrupt and hijack the exercise, despite the presence of security operatives.
In his withdrawal letter, Professor Obiora Okonkwo expressed deep dismay:
“After careful reflection on the state of the APC primary process in Anambra, I have chosen to withdraw my candidacy. This was not an easy decision, but recent developments contradict the values I hold dear. I cannot risk the safety of my supporters or lend credence to a flawed process.”
He reaffirmed his commitment to public service and expressed continued support for President Bola Tinubu’s development agenda:
“I remain dedicated to the socio-economic and political progress of Anambra and Nigeria. I thank my supporters and political associates both within and outside the APC for their unwavering trust.”
The unfolding drama has deepened tensions within the APC, with party members and observers calling for a transparent, credible, and peaceful resolution to the crisis-ridden primary election.
