By Tony Ezike
The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Dr. Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, has declared that insecurity in Anambra State will become history if he is given the mandate to govern.
Speaking during a well-attended APC campaign rally in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area, Ukachukwu promised to tackle the state’s security challenges head-on, assuring optimal utilization of the people’s mandate.
“Give me the instrumentality of government and I will stop insecurity in our land,” he assured. “Ihiala receives about ₦400 million monthly, yet there is absolutely nothing on ground to justify the allocation. Leadership is not about academic titles, it is about wisdom and the will to offer good governance to the people.”
Ukachukwu decried the growing insecurity in Ihiala and other parts of Anambra South, citing the gruesome smoking out of an innocent family in Isekke as a failure of government responsibility.
Chief Fab Ozigbo, a former Labour Party chieftain who recently defected to the APC, said his decision to leave LP was inspired by the credibility and strength of the APC candidates. This is the first time two former governorship candidates are running together on a single ticket.”
“I was a Labour Party member just a month ago. My resignation is because of the APC candidates, and I am committed to helping deliver them at the polls,” he said.
Hon. Theo Nnorom praised the Ukachukwu-Ekwunife ticket, describing it as a “bulldozer and power house” alliance. He lamented the state of insecurity that has forced residents of Ihiala to seek safety in neighbouring towns.
Hon. Emeka Anohu described the APC campaign team as the most credible to have visited Ihiala. He donated a building at Nkwo Okija for APC political activities to support the joint ticket.
Dr. Mrs. Uche Obi, speaking on behalf of her support base largely made up of women, declared full support for the APC duo, calling the gathering highly anticipated and appreciated.
Former State Assembly member Hon. Chidi Udemmadu also announced his defection from APGA to APC, criticizing his former party for contributing to insecurity in Ihiala.
“Only an insane person will remain in a collapsing house,” Udemmadu said, in a direct jab at APGA’s governance.
Hon. Tokas Ohazuruike and Barr. Obinna Uzoh both emphasized the party’s resolve to provide real leadership devoid of political deceit. Uzoh, in particular, condemned Governor Soludo’s comment that communities must organize themselves before receiving development, describing it as insensitive.
APC State Chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, rallied the people of Ihiala to mobilize and vote massively for APC, insisting that the party remains the only viable platform to rescue Anambra State from its current woes.
Senator Uche Ekwunife, the deputy governorship candidate, offered prayers for divine favour ahead of the election. She lamented how insecurity has driven away some of Ihiala’s brightest minds and discouraged investment in the area.
“Recent developments in the state has proven that being well educated does not guarantee good governance,” she added.
Other dignitaries at the rally include Anambra South Senatorial aspirant Chief Azuka Okwuosa, Hon. Phanzark, APC State Women Leader Chief Mrs. Maria Ejielo, former Director-General of the British Chamber of Commerce Hon. Mrs. Ify Chinwuko, and I-WIN convener Hon. Njideka Oraedum, among others.
The rally marked a significant moment in Anambra politics as several leaders across party lines expressed support for the APC’s joint ticket of Prince Ukachukwu and Senator Uche Ekwunife. It also marked the first time two former governorship candidates are running together on a single ticket, according to Chief Fab Ozigbo
The Okija rally further solidified the APC’s momentum as the 2025 Anambra Governorship Election draws closer, with residents expressing renewed hope for change.
