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Soludo Re-Elected as Anambra Governor, Wins All 21 LGAs — Tinubu, Ngige, SERAP React
Governor Chukwuma Soludo makes history by winning all 21 LGAs in Anambra’s governorship election, as Tinubu, Ngige, and SERAP react to the landslide victory amid opposition complaints of vote-buying.
Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has achieved a historic victory in Anambra State, becoming the first candidate to win all 21 local government areas in the state’s governorship election.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), through the Returning Officer Prof. Edoba Omoregie of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), officially declared Soludo the winner less than 24 hours after the poll.
Soludo, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), polled 422,664 votes to secure re-election, defeating Nicholas Ukachukwu of the APC, who scored 99,445 votes. Other results include Paul Chukwuma (YPP) – 37,753 votes, George Moghalu (LP) – 10,576 votes, John Nwosu (ADC) – 8,208 votes, Jude Ezenwafor (PDP) – 1,230 votes, and Chioma Ifemeludike (AAC) – 292 votes.
“Having satisfied the requirements of the law and scored the highest number of votes, I hereby declare Soludo Charles Chukwuma of APGA winner and duly elected,” Prof. Omoregie announced.
With 72.37% of the total 595,054 valid votes cast, Soludo becomes the third governor in Anambra’s history to be re-elected, after Peter Obi and Willie Obiano.
“You have not seen anything yet” — Soludo
Speaking after his declaration in Isuofia, Soludo expressed gratitude to Ndi Anambra, describing the victory as a collective achievement.
“This victory reflects the aspirations of our citizens. I am profoundly grateful for the support received from every corner of Anambra State. You have not seen anything yet — with this trust, in partnership with Ndi Anambra, we will do more,” he said.
He also commended INEC for what he described as a free, fair, and transparent election, while thanking President Bola Tinubu for upholding the democratic process.
“The people have spoken loudly, and their votes counted,” Soludo said, extending a hand of fellowship to his opponents and promising inclusive governance.
Looking ahead, the governor vowed to accelerate development projects, improve security, and create economic opportunities across the state.
“The journey begins now. I am dedicated to ensuring that every resident of Anambra feels the positive impact of our governance,” he added.
Tinubu: Hardworking leaders can’t be denied victory
Congratulating Soludo, President Bola Tinubu said the outcome showed that the will of the people prevailed.
“The victory of APGA again demonstrates the vitality of our political system — that victory for any progressive and hardworking leader can hardly be denied,” Tinubu said in a statement, commending INEC for conducting a credible election.
Ngige: Soludo’s victory is a referendum
Former Minister of Labour, Dr. Chris Ngige, described Soludo’s sweeping win as a referendum on his leadership.
“His performance since March 2022 has been outstanding. The landslide across all 21 LGAs is a testament to the people’s satisfaction,” Ngige said, urging Soludo to continue prioritizing public welfare and security.
Opposition rejects results
Not all contestants accepted the outcome. The Labour Party candidate, Dr. George Moghalu, rejected the election, describing it as “a sham.”
“Vote buying was alarming, underage voting was widespread, and our party logo was missing on some ballots. I reject the result in its entirety,” Moghalu said.
Similarly, John Nwosu of the ADC described the election as “a national disgrace,” alleging financial inducement at polling units.
“Cash, not voters, delivered Soludo’s victory,” Nwosu claimed.
SERAP demands probe of vote-buying allegations
In a related development, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) urged INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan to refer all allegations of vote-buying and undue influence during the election to the anti-corruption agencies and police for investigation and prosecution.
SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, stated:
“Impunity for electoral bribery and vote buying remains a major threat to Nigeria’s democracy. Unless those involved are prosecuted, future elections will continue to suffer credibility issues.”
The group gave INEC seven days to act or face legal action compelling it to do so.
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