Amanze Chinonye
With just three days to the November 8, 2025 governorship election, Anambra State voters face a field of 16 candidates from across political parties, from the incumbent governor to younger women and lesser-known challengers.
On November 8, the people of Anambra will head to the polls to elect a new governor. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cleared 16 candidates to contest in what promises to be a competitive race.
From seasoned politicians and entrepreneurs to first-time contenders, each of the 16 candidates brings unique experiences and plans for the future of the state.
Join our WhatsApp Channel1. Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo (APGA)
Hailing from Isuofia in Aguata Local Government Area, Prof. Charles Soludo is an economist and academic who served as Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from 2004 to 2009. Before that, he was Chief Economic Adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Director-General of the National Planning Commission.
He was also the founding Chairman of the Africa Finance Corporation and has consulted for several international organisations.
As the incumbent governor seeking a second term under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Soludo’s campaign emphasises continuity in infrastructure development and economic reform.
2. Prince Nicholas Chukwujekwu Ukachukwu (APC)
From Osumenyi in Nnewi South LGA, Ukachukwu is an industrialist and former member of the House of Representatives. He holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of Calabar and chairs the SNECOU Group Limited – a conglomerate with interests in oil and gas, real estate, construction, agriculture, and media.
A former chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), he represented AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency between 1999 and 2003.
Now the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), his campaign focuses on industrial growth, job creation, and security.
3. Chief Jude Ezenwafor (PDP)
An Abuja-based real estate developer and trade consultant, Ezenwafor emerged unopposed as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) flag-bearer, receiving unanimous endorsement from 853 delegates.
His career spans advisory roles to governors and leadership positions in political and trade sectors.
He has pledged to prioritise economic revival, security, and business-friendly governance.
4. Dr. George Nnadubem Moghalu (Labour Party)
A native of Uruagu, Nnewi North LGA, Dr. Moghalu is the former Managing Director of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA). He previously served as Director-General of the Bureau of Cooperatives and Rural Development in Abia State.
Beyond public service, he founded the Zimuzo Development Foundation.
His Labour Party campaign focuses on service delivery, workers’ welfare, and grassroots empowerment.
5. Cyprian Echezona Otti (APM)
The 66-year-old Allied Peoples Movement (APM) candidate, Echezona Otti, holds a Higher National Diploma and other academic qualifications.
He presents himself as a veteran politician experienced in governance and local administration, with a platform centered on pragmatic leadership.
6. Chioma Grace Ifemeludike (AAC)
From Eziowelle in Idemili North LGA, Ifemeludike is a Nollywood actress, producer, and activist. She studied Political Science at Anambra State University (now COOU) and has long advocated for youth and women’s participation in politics.
At 36, she is the youngest contender in the race, running on the African Action Congress (AAC) ticket with a campaign focused on inclusion, transparency, and civic rights.
7. Chuma John Nwosu (ADC)
Nwosu hails from Oduda, Nnewichi community in Nnewi North LGA. An economist and computer technologist with over 30 years of private-sector experience, he is the Chief Executive Officer of Jetlink Group Ltd., an ICT company with operations in Nigeria, Ghana, and Liberia.
He clinched the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ticket and emphasises grassroots economic empowerment and technology-driven governance.
8. Christopher Chukwudubem Nweke (APP)
The 44-year-old lawyer is the governorship candidate of the Action Peoples Party (APP), running alongside Okeke Blessing Ebele.
He advocates for legal reforms, good governance, and anti-corruption initiatives, bringing a rule-of-law perspective to his campaign.
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9. Chika Jerry Okeke (Boot Party)
Born in Ezinifite, Aguata LGA, Okeke studied Civil Engineering at IMT Enugu and Geological Science at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK).
He is the founder of Edumail Publications Ltd., a leading educational publishing company whose materials are used across Nigeria.
His campaign under the Boot Party banner promotes youth empowerment, education, and entrepreneurship.
10. Geoffrey Onyejegbu (NNPP)
A retired Nigerian Army Colonel, Onyejegbu is contesting under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP).
He previously sought the APC governorship ticket in 2021 before joining the NNPP.
His campaign highlights rural development, security, and fiscal transparency.
11. Ndidi Christy Olieh (NRM)
INEC-recognised flag-bearer of the National Rescue Movement (NRM), Olieh, 40, holds a BSc from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
She also serves as the Anambra State spokesperson for her party.
Her campaign focuses on healthcare, education, and youth employment, positioning her as one of two women contesting in the race.
12. Vincent Chukwurah (SDP)
The 71-year-old candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) previously contested for the Idemili North/Idemili South House of Representatives seat in 2023.
He campaigns on governance reform and community reconciliation, with decades of political involvement behind him.
13. Paul Chukwuma (YPP)
Born on February 27, 1978, in Ihiala LGA, Chukwuma holds first-class degrees in Philosophy and Law, as well as an LLM in Intellectual Property & IT Law.
He is the founder of Olivia University of Medical Sciences (Anambra) and Olivia University (Burundi), alongside investments in ICT, real estate, and education.
Running on the Young Progressives Party (YPP) ticket, his campaign centres on transparency, innovation, and youth empowerment.
14. Uchenna Martin Ugwoji (ZLP)
The 59-year-old Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) candidate holds first school-leaving and WAEC certificates.
He is running alongside his deputy, Obi Faith.
ZLP’s platform emphasises grassroots service, rural infrastructure, and local governance.
15. Chidi Charles Onyeze (AA)
A 54-year-old philanthropist and politician, Onyeze emerged unopposed as the Accord Party’s candidate during its primary election in Awka.
He is contesting with Ezeadili Appolonia as his running mate.
His campaign focuses on unity, equity, and social welfare.
16. Japhet Ezechukwu Nweke (Action Alliance)
Aged 55, Nweke is the chairman and CEO of Blue Shield Security Company Limited.
He clinched the Action Alliance (AA) ticket through an Option A4 primary election, securing 58 delegate votes.
He campaigns on security, job creation, and community protection.
As Anambra residents prepare to vote, the 2025 governorship election promises to be a blend of experience, innovation, and diversity, with candidates drawn from academia, business, politics, entertainment, and civil society.
INEC has reiterated its readiness for a transparent process as the state braces for what could be one of its most competitive elections in recent years.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
