Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has described the just-concluded governorship election as the most credible and transparent poll ever conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the state.
Speaking on Sunday in Awka after being declared winner by INEC, Soludo extended an olive branch to his co-contestants, pledging to collaborate with them in advancing the state’s development.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, whom he lauded as a “true democrat” for ensuring a free and fair electoral process.
“The people have spoken, and their votes counted. I thank INEC, especially its new Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan. I’m delighted that his first outing was an emphatic success as INEC delivered,” Soludo said.
Dedicating his victory to the people of Anambra, the governor described it as a “historic mandate,” recalling how voter participation rose significantly compared to previous elections.
“This victory belongs to Ndi Anambra. Four years ago, when BVAS was first introduced, turnout was low, and we won with 112,000 votes. This time, 22 per cent of registered voters participated—breaking the 20 per cent ceiling—and you re-elected us with 73 per cent of total votes,” he noted.
Soludo said the renewed mandate reflects the people’s confidence in his administration and vowed to intensify development efforts across the state.
“We applied for the job; you employed us. With this renewed trust and partnership, we will move into high gear to deliver even more for the good of Anambra. Now that the people have spoken, it’s time to work — you haven’t seen anything yet,” he added.
