Valentine Ozigbo, a leading contender in the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary for Anambra State, has firmly rejected the results of the April 5, 2025, primary election. He referred to the entire process as a “well-orchestrated heist” and a “charade” that, in his view, betrayed democratic principles.
Ozigbo, who previously ran under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2021 election, has now emerged as a prominent figure in APC politics. But this time, he claims the party’s internal election process was deeply flawed. He disclosed that he has already submitted a petition to the APC Appeals Committee, detailing several irregularities he said occurred during the exercise.
He noted in his statement that individuals who were not members of the APC were listed as delegates, while actual party members were allegedly denied access to vote—some even being blocked or threatened with violence. According to Ozigbo, there was no proper accreditation process, and the vote counting lacked openness and credibility.
Ozigbo stressed that his challenge is not about personal gain but about defending democratic values. “This is not just about me. It is about the soul of our democracy. About the values we claim to represent. About the future we owe our children,” he stated.
Despite the outcome, he said he remains committed to staying in the APC and working for the people of Anambra. “I will not be distracted. I will not run to the Senate, nor will I pivot to another political opportunity for the sake of ambition. I will stand firm, here, in the APC, and I will fight this good fight to its just end. Because Ndi Anambra are worth it. Because our democracy is worth it.”
To his loyal supporters, Ozigbo offered words of encouragement. Calling them “the dreamers, the believers, the Valiants,” he said: “Keep your heads up. Our mission continues. Stay strong. Stay hopeful. We will not back down. We will not break.”
He also called out those he believes were responsible for manipulating the process, warning that they cannot silence the will of the people forever. “The future cannot be bribed or bullied. The people are watching. History is recording.”
Ozigbo urged the APC leadership to take responsibility and act fast to correct the wrongs of the primary. He said doing so would restore faith in the party, not just in Anambra but across Nigeria. “Let us remind the APC that this election is a defining moment — not just for Anambra, but for the credibility of our party and the soul of our nation. The party still has a chance to right this wrong and present a candidate who can truly win and govern.”
He closed his message with a call for wisdom and strength: “May wisdom guide us, may courage strengthen us, and may the grace of God continue to carry us. Ka Anambra Chawapu.”
