AdminBy Ikemefuna Ozobi
As the race for the governorship of Anambra State heats up with just 48 hours to the APC primaries on 5 April, there is a growing attempt to sway delegates with the misleading argument of zoning.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThis narrative falsely suggests that the governorship should automatically go to a candidate from the Anambra South Senatorial Zone. This strategic deception distracts from the central issue, which is choosing the most capable candidate to lead the state. The delegates must recognise the dangers of this zoning propaganda and decide based on competence, not political manipulation.
First, let us set the record straight. Anambra APC does not have an official zoning arrangement in place. Zoning, as commonly understood, is a practice associated primarily with the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and is often wielded as a political tool, not grounded in any formal agreement or policy in the APC. Those pushing the zoning narrative usually work behind the scenes to benefit APGA’s interests, attempting to divide the APC and steer the party away from its proper course. This is an attempt to derail the momentum that the APC has in Anambra State and reduce its chances of winning the 8 November 2025 governorship election.
The key question here is: who is best suited to lead Anambra State into the future? Sir Paul Chukwuma, a distinguished and competent leader, is the answer. His vision for Anambra transcends the artificial divides of zoning, focusing instead on the need for qualified leadership. Sir Paul possesses the qualities that Anambra needs at this critical juncture – vision, experience, and the commitment to transforming the state into a beacon of economic development, social progress, and good governance.
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Let’s also reflect on the historical context of Anambra State zoning, if necessary. The notion that the South should automatically produce the next governor is flawed when viewed through the state’s historical governance lens. Since 1999, all three senatorial zones – South, Central, and North – have had roughly equal opportunities to hold the governorship seat. Anambra South had Mbadinuju (1999-2003) and currently has Soludo (2022-2026); Anambra Central had Peter Obi (2006-2014); and Anambra North had Willie Obiano (2014-2022). Each zone has had a fair chance, and no zone is politically or morally entitled to dominate the governorship race.
Moreover, zoning creates an environment where leadership is chosen based on geography, not merit. Anambra is too important to allow such a narrow, divisive framework to dictate its future. Our state deserves a governor who is not confined to a zone but has the expertise, foresight, and courage to face the challenges of today and the future. Sir Paul Chukwuma, with his unparalleled credentials and wide-ranging support, embodies the qualities that Anambra needs to move forward, regardless of his geographic origin.
The decision before Anambra APC delegates is simple: Should they choose a candidate based on divisive politics or on merit? The zoning arguments being pushed by a few misguided voices are not only politically motivated but also historically unfounded and intellectually weak. It is time to reject this narrative and instead focus on the qualities that make Sir Paul Chukwuma the ideal candidate to lead Anambra State.
In conclusion, the upcoming primaries offer Anambra APC an opportunity to rise above the politics of division and select a candidate who represents the future. Sir Paul Chukwuma, a loyal party man, is the most qualified to take Anambra to greater heights. The delegates should ignore the zoning propaganda and vote for competence, unity, and progress. The future of Anambra depends on the choices made today.
