Ozigbo rejects Anambra APC primary, files petition over alleged irregularities

DDM News

Valentine Ozigbo, a leading aspirant in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship race for Anambra State, has rejected the party’s April 5 primary election.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that he described the election process as a “charade” and a “theft against Ndi Anambra.”

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Ozigbo confirmed that he had filed a formal petition to the APC Gubernatorial Primary Appeals Committee.

He alleged that the primary election, which produced Mr. Nicholas Ukachukwu as the party’s candidate, was riddled with fraud, irregularities, and a disregard for democratic norms.

Ozigbo, who joined the APC in February, asserted that the primary was manipulated to ensure a predetermined outcome.

He described the event as “a well-orchestrated heist” designed to subvert the democratic process and deliver a result that lacked fairness.

The aspirant pointed out widespread voter exclusion, manipulation, and non-transparency in vote counting during the primary.

He claimed the process violated the APC’s internal rules and the broader expectations of fairness in democratic elections.

Ozigbo emphasized that his opposition to the primary was not merely a personal grievance.

“This is not just about me,” he stated.

“It’s about the soul of our democracy, the values we claim to represent, and the future we owe our children.”

He added that the primary was not only a “fraud against me” but also “a theft against Ndi Anambra.”

Ozigbo strongly condemned the undemocratic nature of the election and its consequences for the people of Anambra.

Ozigbo’s petition to the APC Gubernatorial Primary Appeals Committee comes after he participated in the APC primary race alongside other candidates.

He was regarded as a formidable contender with wide appeal across party lines and a strong electoral base in Anambra.

Ozigbo’s strong support among the youth and his image as a clean politician set him apart from other aspirants.

Analysts note that he was seen as the only APC aspirant capable of challenging the current Governor, Charles Soludo, in the November election.

Despite the controversy surrounding the APC primary, Ozigbo has vowed to stay within the party.

He affirmed his decision to continue the fight from inside the APC, rejecting any notions of political expediency.

“I won’t be distracted,” Ozigbo declared.

“I won’t run to the Senate, nor will I pivot to another political opportunity for the sake of ambition.”

Ozigbo stressed that his decision was motivated by a commitment to public service rather than personal gain.

“I seek power to make a difference, restore dignity, create jobs, secure lives, and light a path for the next generation.”

He further reiterated his position by stating, “I will stand firm, here, in the APC, and I will fight this good fight to its just end.”

Ozigbo’s response to the primary highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring fairness and transparency within Nigeria’s political landscape.

His petition raises concerns about the integrity of the APC’s internal processes.

This development may have broader implications for the party as it prepares for the November governorship election in Anambra State.

It also underscores the need for greater accountability and adherence to democratic values in Nigerian politics.

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