By Tony Ezike
The Conference of Active Non-Indigenes Association of Anambra State (CANIAAS), a socio-cultural coalition of grassroots-based non-indigenous residents, has officially endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship and deputy governorship candidates, Dr. Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu (Ikukuoma) and Senator Dr. Uche Ekwunife (Iyom), ahead of the November 8, 2025, gubernatorial election in Anambra State.
The endorsement was announced on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, during the association’s general assembly held in Awka. The well-attended meeting, which featured cultural displays by member groups, culminated in a unanimous vote of confidence in the APC candidates, citing their proven capacity to drive inclusive governance, infrastructural development, security, youth empowerment, healthcare improvement, and educational advancement in the state.
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, CANIAAS expressed dissatisfaction with the administration of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, accusing it of poor performance across critical sectors, including security, infrastructure, education, and youth development.
The conference also condemned what it described as “widespread cases of jungle justice” allegedly perpetrated by overzealous members of the state government’s security outfits, claiming that several non-indigenous residents, especially youths from Ebonyi State, have fallen victim under the current administration.
CANIAAS further faulted Governor Soludo’s approach to internally generated revenue (IGR), describing it as harsh and exploitative toward non-indigenous traders, commercial drivers, and petty hawkers across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State.
Rejecting any form of political interference or coercion, the conference cautioned a factional leader, Mr. Ikechukwu Ugwoke, against using the association’s name to promote Soludo’s alleged second-term ambitions. The group reiterated its commitment to remaining independent and unbought.
The body, therefore, directed all its grassroots structures to mobilize their members massively to vote for the APC candidates, Dr. Nicholas Ukachukwu and Senator Uche Ekwunife, in the November 8 election, expressing confidence that their administration would protect the rights and interests of non-indigenes in Anambra State.
The event concluded with a vibrant cultural celebration featuring traditional music, dance, and other forms of entertainment.
Signed:
For and on behalf of the General Assembly of the Active Non-Indigenes Association of Anambra State (CANIAAS):
Mazi Paul Enwerem: Imo State Representative
Mr. Johnson Ubochi: Abia State Representative
Engr. Osita Mbah: Enugu State Representative
Dr. Sylvanus Otamiri: South South/South West Representative
Dr. Donatus Nwobasi: Ebonyi State Representative
