Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu Clinches APC Gubernatorial Ticket for Anambra 2025
In what has been described as a historic moment for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu has emerged as the party’s gubernatorial candidate for the 2025 Anambra State elections. The primary election, held amidst high political anticipation, saw Ukachukwu secure a decisive victory over his competitors, cementing his place as the APC’s standard-bearer in the upcoming race.
The results of the election were formally announced by His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, the Governor of Cross River State and Chairman of the APC Electoral Committee. The announcement took place at a well-attended event where party delegates from across the state gathered to witness the outcome of the primaries.
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According to the final tally presented by Governor Otu, Prince Ukachukwu won with an overwhelming 1,455 votes, far surpassing his closest contender, Valentine Ozigbo, who garnered 67 votes. Johnbosco Onunkwo and Edozie Madu secured 26 votes and 8 votes, respectively, with 26 votes declared invalid. The margin of Ukachukwu’s victory signals a resounding endorsement of his candidacy and sets the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested gubernatorial race in 2025.
Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu is no stranger to Anambra politics. His name has been associated with the state’s political landscape for decades, with a long-standing reputation as an influential figure in the state’s governance and political circles. Over the years, Ukachukwu has been pivotal in the emergence of several key political figures in Anambra, and he is widely regarded as one of the state’s most prominent political godfathers.
In his acceptance speech following the announcement of the results, Prince Ukachukwu expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Working Committee of the APC, Governor Otu, and his team for ensuring a smooth, transparent, and free election process. He also took time to acknowledge the contributions of his fellow aspirants, commending them for their participation and sportsmanship throughout the primaries.
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“I am deeply honored by the trust and confidence you have placed in me. I extend my heartfelt thanks to President Tinubu for his unwavering support and guidance in ensuring the success of this election process. This victory is not just mine, but that of every Anambra APC member who believes in our vision for the state,” Ukachukwu remarked.
Prince Ukachukwu, known for his political acumen, made a call for unity within the party following his victory. He urged all party members, particularly his fellow aspirants, to put aside any differences and rally behind his candidacy as the party prepares for the ultimate challenge of the 2025 gubernatorial elections.
“We are one party, and together, we can achieve greatness for Anambra State. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that we put aside any personal ambitions or differences and focus on the common goal: delivering Anambra to the APC. Our state deserves leadership that prioritizes its development and well-being,” Ukachukwu said.
His call for unity was a direct appeal to the party’s delegates, supporters, and key stakeholders who may have been divided during the primary contest. His victory, though decisive, marks the beginning of a broader campaign that will require the concerted effort of all APC members to secure electoral success in 2025.
Prince Ukachukwu’s political influence in Anambra is undeniable. For years, he has been a key player in the state’s political sphere, often seen as a “kingmaker” who has shaped the direction of political leadership in the state. Many credit him with the emergence of successive governors in Anambra, including key figures within the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and other political parties.
However, Ukachukwu’s primary victory comes with a new narrative: he is no longer merely a godfather behind the scenes. In his speech, Ukachukwu reflected on his longstanding role in Anambra’s political evolution, stating, “I have been instrumental in the emergence of governors in Anambra over the years. I have played the role of a godfather, but now, I am ready to father myself.”
This statement signals Ukachukwu’s intention to step out from behind the curtain and lead the state himself, rather than continuing in the background. It is a statement of confidence, as well as a pledge to deliver the kind of leadership he believes the people of Anambra deserve.
With the APC now firmly behind Ukachukwu, the battle for Anambra’s governorship seat is set to intensify. The incumbent governor, Charles Chukwuma Soludo, representing the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), will not give up the seat easily. Soludo, a former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor, has garnered both praise and criticism for his handling of the state’s affairs. His administration, marked by a focus on economic development and infrastructural projects, has had its share of successes, but also faced significant challenges, including rising insecurity and the management of public sector wages.
Soludo’s performance as governor will inevitably be a central issue in the upcoming election, and Ukachukwu’s campaign will likely focus on presenting an alternative to the current administration. Ukachukwu has already begun positioning himself as a candidate who understands the needs of the people, emphasizing his commitment to improving Anambra’s economy, security, and education system.
“I have always believed in the potential of Anambra. We are a state full of resources—human and natural—and I am committed to tapping into these resources to propel our state to new heights. Our people deserve a government that works for them, and I will provide that leadership,” Ukachukwu assured his supporters.
Anambra State is one of the most politically active regions in Nigeria, with a rich political history and a highly competitive electoral environment. Over the years, the state has witnessed intense political rivalries, especially between the major political parties. The dominance of APGA in Anambra’s politics has been a defining feature, with the party having produced successive governors for many years. However, the APC’s growing influence in the state, along with Ukachukwu’s rise as a strong contender, signals a shift in the political dynamics.
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The APC’s victory in the 2025 gubernatorial election would mark a significant political milestone for the party, as it would break the stranglehold of APGA on the state’s leadership. For Ukachukwu, this election represents a historic opportunity to not only become the next governor but to leave a lasting legacy as the leader who transformed Anambra into a model of governance in the Southeast.
The APC’s push for the governorship seat in Anambra is also part of a broader strategy to expand the party’s influence in the Southeast region. While the Southeast has traditionally been a stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and APGA, the APC has been making inroads in the region, particularly with the support of key political figures like Prince Ukachukwu.
The APC’s efforts to increase its footprint in the Southeast are seen as a critical component of its national strategy to consolidate power across the country. With Ukachukwu’s longstanding political experience and connections within the region, the APC is hopeful that it can gain significant traction in Anambra, setting a precedent for future elections in the Southeast.
As the APC prepares for the 2025 gubernatorial election, much will depend on Ukachukwu’s ability to navigate the intricacies of Anambra politics, unify his party, and present a compelling vision for the state’s future. His experience as a political godfather and his deep understanding of the state’s governance structures will undoubtedly play a crucial role in his quest for the governorship seat.
Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu’s victory in securing the APC gubernatorial ticket for Anambra 2025 marks a significant turning point in the state’s political history. His long-standing influence in the state’s politics, coupled with his strategic vision for Anambra’s future, has made him a formidable candidate in the upcoming race. However, the journey to the Anambra Government House will not be easy, as Ukachukwu faces formidable opposition from both within his party and from the incumbent APGA-led administration.
The next few months will be critical as Ukachukwu works to unite the APC, solidify his base of support, and prepare for the rigors of a state-wide campaign. His success or failure will not only impact his own political career but also shape the future of Anambra State in the years to come. As the 2025 election draws closer, all eyes will be on Ukachukwu and his campaign as he seeks to lead Anambra into a new era of progress and prosperity.
