Valentine Ozigbo, a governorship hopeful under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has firmly rejected the outcome of the recently held APC gubernatorial primary election in Anambra State.
He described the process as fraudulent and manipulated to favor a predetermined candidate.
According to results announced by Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State, who chaired the APC Primary Election Committee, Prince Dr. Nicholas Ukachukwu was declared winner with 1,455 votes. Other aspirants received significantly fewer votes, with Ozigbo polling 67 votes, Engr. Johnbosco Onunkwo garnering 26 votes, and Edozie Madu securing only 8 votes.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, Ozigbo denounced the entire exercise, calling it a “well-orchestrated heist” and “a complete charade.” He asserted that the election was marred by irregularities, including the use of non-party members as delegates, the barring of genuine APC members from voting, manipulated accreditation processes, and a lack of transparency in vote counting.
“Yesterday, I formally submitted a petition to the APC Appeals Committee, challenging the validity and credibility of what was referred to as a primary election held in Anambra on April 5, 2025,” Ozigbo stated. “That process was not only flawed, but it also represented a blatant assault on internal democracy and fairness.”
The former Labour Party stalwart emphasized that his protest was not merely personal but driven by a desire to protect democratic principles and preserve the future of the state and country.
“This is bigger than me. It’s about defending the soul of our democracy and the values we claim to uphold as a party and as a nation,” he noted.
Ozigbo, who previously served as President and CEO of Transcorp, also clarified that he would remain in the APC and continue his political mission despite the setback. He reaffirmed his dedication to Anambra State and reiterated his commitment to serve with vision, humility, and excellence.
“I didn’t enter politics for titles or appointments. I joined to be part of a transformative movement that will bring dignity to governance, empower our people, and lay a solid foundation for future generations,” he said.
Addressing his supporters whom he described as “the dreamers, the believers, the Valiants” Ozigbo urged them not to lose hope or be discouraged by the recent events. He assured them that the journey continues, and that he remains committed to challenging the outcome through all available internal mechanisms.
He further warned those behind the alleged manipulation, stating, “The future cannot be bought or bullied. Nigerians are watching, and history is keeping records. The theft of April 5 will not stand unchallenged.”
Ozigbo also called on the national leadership of the APC to act swiftly to correct the alleged injustice, stating that the credibility of the party in Anambra and its electoral prospects depend on it.
“This moment is critical — not just for Anambra, but for the integrity of the APC and the broader health of Nigeria’s democratic process,” he said.
He concluded with a call for wisdom, courage, and divine guidance, declaring that his mission to serve the people of Anambra remains unshaken.
