Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has hailed his resounding re-election victory as a reflection of Nigeria’s improving electoral process. Speaking in his hometown, Isuofia, Aguata Local Government Area, shortly after being declared winner by the Returning Officer, Prof. Edoba Omoregie, the governor said his victory demonstrates that elections in Nigeria are becoming more credible and people-driven.
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate secured a sweeping win across the state, capturing all 21 local government areas and 320 out of 326 electoral wards. Soludo scored 422,662 votes (72%), while APC candidate Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu came second with 99,445 votes. YPP’s Paul Chukwuma and Labour Party’s George Moghalu followed with 37,753 and 10,576 votes respectively, while ADC’s John Nwosu polled 8,208 votes.
Addressing jubilant supporters, Soludo described his re-election as “a show of solidarity and confidence” in his administration’s performance.
“This is a moment to say congratulations to the people of Anambra,” Soludo said. “Four years ago, we were elected with 112,000 votes, but this time, you spoke loudly with 422,662 votes. Out of 326 wards, we lost only six — that’s a very emphatic statement.”
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring a level playing field, describing him as “a true democrat.” Soludo also praised the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, for what he called a credible and technology-driven election.
“Every election year is getting better and better in Anambra,” he said. “By Saturday night, INEC had uploaded up to 99% of the results. We already knew where the election was heading. It was fair and transparent.”
The governor pledged to accelerate development during his second term. “We are in gear three, and now we are moving to gear four. No minute will be wasted — ours is an assignment with a deadline,” he said.
Soludo also expressed regret over the killing of an APGA councillor in Owerre-Ezukala, Orumba South LGA, describing it as “a tragic reminder that violence has no place in democracy.”
Following his remarks, Soludo joined supporters, APGA officials, and family members in a victory dance at his residence.
Tinubu, Governors Forum Congratulate Soludo
President Tinubu congratulated Governor Soludo, describing his victory as “a testament to visionary leadership and discipline.” In a statement he personally signed, Tinubu praised Soludo for bringing “grace, brilliance, and a fresh perspective to governance.”
He said: “Governor Soludo, the Solution, has shown that academic principles can drive accountability and transparency in governance. His victory shows that Nigerians will always reward performance.”
Tinubu urged Soludo to be “magnanimous in victory” and assured him of federal support. “The victory of APGA again demonstrates that progressive and hardworking leaders can always win, regardless of political affiliation,” he said.
The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) also congratulated Soludo, describing his re-election as “well-deserved.” The forum said the wide margin of victory underscores the popularity of Soludo’s policies and his administration’s impact on the lives of Anambra residents.
Opposition Parties Reject Results
However, several opposition parties rejected the outcome, alleging irregularities, intimidation, and vote buying.
APC candidate Nicholas Ukachukwu said he was “still collating evidence,” alleging the burning of a supporter’s house in Anambra East and vandalism of party vehicles. The ADC and Labour Party also described the process as compromised, citing incidents of cash inducement, missing ballot logos, and intimidation of voters.
ADC’s candidate, John Nwosu, called the exercise “a cash bazaar,” while LP’s Valentine Moghalu alleged that “INEC failed to deliver a credible poll.”
In response, Anambra REC Queen Agwu dismissed the allegations as “rumours,” urging complainants to provide proof. The EFCC confirmed the arrest of three suspects for vote buying in Njikoka, Awkuzu, and Dunukofia, adding that they will face charges upon completion of investigations.
The Police Service Commission (PSC) rated security personnel’s performance as “above average,” citing professionalism and orderliness in most polling units.
Governor Soludo’s landslide re-election, coupled with widespread praise for INEC’s improved logistics and result transmission, is being seen as a positive signal for Nigeria’s democratic process ahead of future elections.
