ABUJA, Nigeria — Valentine Ozigbo, renowned business leader and governorship aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has rejected the outcome of the party’s Anambra primary held on April 5, branding it a “charade” and “theft against Ndi Anambra.”
In a bold statement released on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, Ozigbo confirmed he has filed a formal petition before the APC Gubernatorial Primary Appeals Committee. He alleges the process that declared Mr. Nicholas Ukachukwu as the party’s candidate was fraught with irregularities, fraud, and violations of democratic principles.
“That exercise was a charade — a well-orchestrated heist designed to deliver a predetermined outcome,” Ozigbo declared in the statement.
He cited widespread voter disenfranchisement, the use of non-party members as delegates, manipulated accreditation, and opaque vote counting, insisting the process not only violated party rules but also betrayed public trust.
“This Is Bigger Than Me”
Having recently joined the APC from the Labour Party, after a strong 2021 gubernatorial run under the PDP, Ozigbo framed his challenge not as a personal vendetta but as a stand for democratic integrity.
“This is not just about me. It’s about the soul of our democracy. It’s about the future we owe our children,” he wrote.
Known for his widespread appeal among the youth and across political divides, Ozigbo is seen by many as the APC’s most viable contender to unseat Governor Charles Soludo in the November elections.
“I Will Not Back Down”
In his statement, Ozigbo vowed to remain within the APC and continue his pursuit for justice from within, rejecting the lure of other political opportunities.
“I will not run to the Senate or chase political appointments. I will stay the course — here in the APC — and fight this good fight to its just end,” he asserted.
He reaffirmed his commitment to service over ambition, stating:
“I am not a transactional politician. I seek power to make a difference — to restore dignity, create jobs, secure lives, and light a path for the next generation.”
“Oppression Always Fights Back Before It Breaks”
Ozigbo likened his fight to historic liberation struggles, invoking Mandela, the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, and Nigeria’s independence movement.
“What we are witnessing today is the dying kicks of a system scared of change. But Anambra must change — and it will,” he said.
“The future cannot be bribed or bullied. The people are watching. History is recording.”
Call to the APC Leadership
Ozigbo urged APC’s national leadership to rise to the occasion and salvage both the party’s credibility and Anambra’s future.
“This election is a defining moment — not just for Anambra but for the soul of our party and nation. The APC still has a chance to right this wrong.”
He ended with a rallying cry to his supporters and the people of Anambra:
“Ka Anambra Chawapu” — Let Anambra Shine Brighter.
