By Sumaila Ogbaje
A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Gabriel Nwakamma, has urged the party to consider Sir Paul Chukwuma, for its ticket for the Nov. 8, Anambra Governorship Election,describing him as the best choice for the party’s ticket.
Nwakamma, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Moscobean Nigeria Limited, in a statement on Sunday, said the APC had a critical decision to make in selecting a candidate who can not only secure victory but also drive meaningful development in the state.
He said that Chukwuma rebuilt Anambra APC against all odds and had been the backbone of the part, especially during a time when the party faced widespread rejection in the Southeast due to ethnic profiling.
According to him, while other politicians distanced themselves from APC for fear of political backlash, Sir Paul stood firm and single-handedly built the party’s structure in the state.
“Many Southeast politicians publicly opposed APC while secretly seeking favor from the party’s leadership in Abuja. In contrast, Sir Paul boldly defended and promoted the party, ensuring that it remained a strong force in Anambra.
“His loyalty and resilience prove that he is a true party man who deserves APC’s support.
“His experience in business and education will transform Anambra
“Governance requires vision, leadership, and administrative skills—qualities that Sir Paul Chukwuma has demonstrated in his business career.
“As the owner of Olivia University in Bujumbura, Burundi, one of the best universities in the country, he has shown his ability to manage large institutions and drive excellence.
“If given the mandate to govern Anambra, he will use his expertise to reform the state’s education sector. His experience in running a successful university proves that he understands what it takes to improve education, a key sector that needs urgent attention in the state,” he said.
Nwakamma added that the religious background of the aspirant also gave him an edge in Anambra politics, saying that religion plays a crucial role in Anambra elections.
He said the voting pattern in the state had, historically been influenced by religious sentiments, adding that Chukwuma, a devoted Catholic and former seminarian, had strong ties within the Catholic community.
According to him, many of his former seminary classmates are now influential priests with large congregations across the state.
“Given the growing religious tensions under the current state government—where worshipers feel restricted in practicing their faith, Sir Paul’s candidacy will resonate with the majority of voters. His deep-rooted Catholic background will give APC a strategic advantage in the election,” he added.
The APC Chieftain urged the party to avoid the mistake of fielding a wrong candidate, allerging that some of the aspirants were being secretly backed by the state government to weaken the party from within.
According to him, there have been instances where political opponents infiltrate parties to create division and ensure their failure in elections, adding that APC must remain vigilant against such tactics.
He described Chukwuma as a dedicated party loyalist who had invested in APC’s growth in Anambra, saying that giving him the governorship ticket would strengthen the party’s chances of winning and ensure that Anambra would be governed by a competent, progressive leader.
“APC must field a candidate who is committed, experienced, and capable of winning the Anambra governorship election.
“Sir Paul Chukwuma has proven his loyalty to the party, demonstrated strong leadership in business and education, and holds significant influence in the state’s dominant religious community.
“If APC wants to take Anambra, Sir Paul is the best choice. The party should rally behind him and ensure victory at the polls,” he said. END