Awka: Chief Nicholas Ukachukwu, a prominent aspirant in the forthcoming Governorship Election in Anambra, has emerged as the candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ukachukwu was declared the winner of the party's governorship primary election early on Sunday morning by the Chairman of the Election Committee and Returning Officer, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the election began on Saturday at the Women Development Centre, Awka, and featured four candidates vying for the position. Governor Otu announced that Ukachukwu secured 1,455 votes, surpassing his closest competitor, Mr. Valentine Ozigbo, who garnered 67 votes. The other aspirants, Mr. Johnbosco Onunkwo and Mr. Edozie Madu, received eight and 26 votes, respectively.
Governor Otu expressed gratitude to the party members and aspirants for their commitment and loyalty, which contributed to the election's success. He also acknowledged the efforts of security agencies, journalists, and election observers who ensured the election was conducted in a free, fair, and peaceful manner.
Mr. Basil Ejidike, the State Chairman of APC, conveyed his satisfaction with the primary election outcome. He remarked that contrary to some media reports, the process was devoid of violence. Ejidike noted that the decision by some aspirants to withdraw from the race was voluntary and within their constitutional rights. He explained that the party chose to adopt an indirect election method to engage grassroots members.
In his response, Ukachukwu pledged to unify and work with all party members to secure victory in the governorship election. He emphasized the need for support and collective effort to achieve success at the polls. Ukachukwu also promised to leverage his experience to challenge and potentially unseat the current administration of the All Progressives Grand Alliance.
The News Agency of Nigeria further reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled November 8 for the off-cycle election.