Governor Charles Soludo’s move to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) is no longer a secret. His recent actions indicate a strategic, although desperate, maneuver to secure his political future amid increasing challenges in Anambra State. Governor Soludo, who was once hailed as a reformer, seems to be scrambling for political security as he faces mounting criticism and internal conflicts within his current party, APGA.
On 12th June, 2024, at the Platform event in Lagos, Governor Soludo held significant discussions with former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola and other key APC figures. During these meetings, Soludo disclosed his intentions to switch allegiance to the APC. Fashola, recognizing the importance of regional support, advised him to engage with the South-East APC leader, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma.
On 29th June, 2024, after the reception honoring Supreme Court Justice Chioma Nwosu-Iheme at Landmark Event Center in Owerri, Soludo met, Governor Hope Uzodinma in a closed-door meeting to outline his plans and secure assurances for an unopposed APC ticket.
The recent move by Soludo has caused significant unease within the Anambra APC, particularly in the camp of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, an APC gubernatorial aspirant. In response, Ubah convened a media retreat in Asaba to expose Soludo’s plans and assert that Soludo must face a primary election challenge. Ubah confidently declared his intention to defeat Soludo in the primaries, reflecting the internal discord Soludo’s potential defection has sparked.
Governor Soludo’s tenure has been marred by insecurity and ineffective governance. He has struggled to provide adequate security for Anambra’s residents, and his political future within his party is uncertain. The legitimacy of his party leadership and the primary election that brought him to power are currently under judicial scrutiny.
Soludo’s electoral mandate is weak, with only 112,000 votes out of 2.5 million registered voters, representing a mere 4%. This makes him the least popular governor in Anambra’s history. Facing formidable opposition from the Labour Party and the APC, Soludo appears to be seeking refuge in the APC’s federal might to bolster his re-election bid.
Anambra voters are disillusioned with Soludo’s unfulfilled “Dubai-Taiwan” vision for the state. His administration’s failure to address critical issues like security and economic development has eroded public trust. The increasing incidence of kidnappings and a heavy-handed approach to governance have further alienated the electorate.
Soludo’s decision to join the APC seems driven by a desperate bid to cling to power through any means necessary, rather than a genuine commitment to serve the people of Anambra. His attempt to sidestep democratic processes and leverage federal influence underscores his disconnect from the very people he claims to represent.
Adding to this desperation is Soludo’s new romance with Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu. This alliance is part of his broader strategy to secure a win in the 2025 elections. By aligning himself with Tinubu, Soludo hopes to leverage the influence and resources of the presidency to his advantage.
Ndi Anambra must recognize Soludo’s desperation and resist any attempts to undermine their democratic rights. The state needs a leader who is not only capable but also compassionate and committed to addressing insecurity, economic challenges, and community development. Soludo’s track record suggests he is not the man for the job, and his recent actions only confirm his prioritization of political survival over public service.
Governor Soludo’s political gambit to join the APC highlights his increasing desperation amid a failing administration. Anambra deserves better, and its people must stand firm against any attempts to manipulate the democratic process. The state’s future hinges on electing a leader who genuinely cares about its progress and well-being, not one who seeks power at any cost.
Ikenna Ekeh
Awka
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