In what appears to be a major political upset in Anambra State, critical stakeholders from Anambra Central Senatorial District have rooted for Valentine Ozigbo, a prominent Nigerian business leader and philanthropist, to emerge as the next governor of the state, come 2025.
The stakeholders’ position came to the fore during an interactive meeting they had with Ozigbo in Awka, over the weekend.
The stakeholders drawn from the various wards in Anambra Central said they are only interested in securing a better Anambra.
Addressing the stakeholders, Ozigbo promised to lead the State to a more enviable height and for only one term of four years if voted to power, after which he will hand over to another competent candidate from Anambra Central.
He further stated that four years would be enough for any serious government to impact lives positively just like what Gov Alex Otti is already demonstrating in Abia State.
“Anambra State under me as governor would be repositioned and transformed to an enviable height within four years because of my competence, leadership quality, and proven records of excellence.
“As an advocate of zoning, I will honor the principles of zoning, I’ll transform Anambra State within four years, and hand it over to any other competent person from Anambra Central. I am a man of integrity,” Ozigbo added.
The crucial aspect of the meeting was when several dignitaries in attendance spoke highly of Ozigbo. They expressed confidence that if he emerged in the upcoming election, he would run the best government in the history of Anambra State.
According to Prof Chinyere Okunna, chief of Staff to former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi and current Deputy Vice Chancellor of Paul’s University, “Val’s character is 100% and this is what makes him fit and proper for this job.
“Some erroneously think that by being humane, civilized, and gentlemanly, you are weak in politics, but these are his greatest strengths.
“Anambra needs someone who is emotionally intelligent and can connect with people, just like HE Peter Obi is known for, and this is what stands Val apart.”
Hon. George Ozodinobi, the Minority Whip of the 8th Assembly and House of Representative member representing Dunukofia, Njikoka, and Anaocha federal constituency, said his primary responsibility is to make sure that he galvanizes delegates and voters in his constituency towards success at the polls. He also said he would align with the party’s National Leader and others to ensure harmony as this is what the party needs to win the election.
On her part, Hon. Prof. Lillian Oby Orogbu, Member representing Awka North and South Federal Constituency, also expressed confidence in the movement, extolling VCO’s leadership qualities and emphasized the need for the Labour Party to come together and support him.
She also acknowledged the fact that engagements from social media have shown that Mr. Val has overwhelming momentum already.
On their part, Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, a Member representing Idemili North and South Federal Constituency, and Kingsley Udemezue, a Member representing Idemili North in the Anambra State House of Assembly, stated that Gov. Soludo thinks he is only an APGA Governor and not an Anambra Governor which led to the marginalization of constituencies not represented by his party and as such, Prof. Soludo could not possibly deserve a second term.
Other leaders of other parties were equally there, including Dr. C.C. Okeke of PDP who in his remarks stated that the reason he honored this meeting was because of his love for VCO.
Many other stakeholders present include Ike Dunukofia, who is also a BOT Member of APGA, Barr. Joe Martins Uzodike, Chief Felix Oli, who was represented by his son, Dr Frank Oli, and many others.
