APGA group backs Soludo, woos non-indigenes

Ahead of the November 8, 2025, governorship election in Anambra State, the All Progressives Grand Alliance support group, known as ‘Anambra Patriots for Soludo’, has urged non-indigenes residing in the state to vote for the state governor and the APGA candidate, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo.

It was gathered that the non-indigenes comprised of Yoruba, Hausa, Fulani, Edo, Igala, Akwa Ibom/Cross River states and other ethnic groups across Nigeria under the auspices of ‘Association of Non-indigenes in Anambra State’. The group made the call at a rally held on Tuesday.

The endorsement rally was held at the International Convention Centre, Awka, on Tuesday, where they unanimously endorsed Soludo for continuity.

According to the group, the endorsement is to enable the governor to continue his “all-inclusive government” in Anambra State.

In his opening speech, the National Convener of APS, Okey Ezeibe, commended Soludo for the remarkable strides in governance, describing him as a visionary leader whose passion for the development of Anambra State remains unparalleled.

Ezeibe said, “The decision to support the governor’s second-term bid is not only informed by the governor’s commendable achievements for three and a half years in office, but also by the evidence-based socio-economic transformation that has characterised his administration.

“We commend the non-indigenes for their support and equally appeal to them to maintain the endorsement spirit during the voting process.”

Also speaking further on behalf of the non-indigenes, the Deputy National Director of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria and the Siriki Fulani Awka, Alhaji Gidado Siddikki, also commended Soludo’s unwavering commitment to repositioning Anambra State.

Siddikki praised the governor’s tireless efforts to bridge infrastructural gaps and improve the welfare of indigenes and non-indigenes, stressing that such a leader deserves the opportunity to complete the good works he has started.

Soludo, in his response, emphasised the importance of unity and active citizenship in Nigeria.

The governor stressed the need for all Nigerians to embrace the principles of citizenship and shared responsibility, urging everyone to participate fully in the democratic process of the country.

Soludo, who described himself as a product of Nigeria’s independence, championed the idea of a united nation, declaring that the stanza that says in the national anthem, “In brotherhood we stand… should not be taken as ‘mere words’.

He emphasised the need to “Work the talk as well as Live it out every day”.

He highlighted Anambra’s commitment to inclusivity, stating, “Once you live in Anambra, you are from Anambra and treated equally.”

The governor also reflected on his administration’s policies, noting that in its first nine months, it successfully recruited 8,115 teachers from 18 different states, demonstrating an inclusive approach to governance. “The best driver I’ve ever had is not from Anambra. The finest minds I’ve dealt with are from across the Country. We are one,” he emphasised.

Soludo outlined key initiatives his administration has implemented, including free education for pupils and students in government primary and secondary schools and free antenatal care for pregnant women and delivery services across the state. “These services are for everybody, no matter where you are from,” he asserted, reinforcing a sense of belonging among all residents.

Looking ahead, the governor called on citizens to engage actively in the electoral process, adding, “Wherever you live, it should be your home”.

He urged individuals to mobilise and ensure they are ready to vote in the upcoming elections. “It is the duty of every citizen to vote, come November 8,” he said.

Soludo concluded his address with a call for a greater dedication to service, encouraging community ownership of the campaign narrative.

“This is the first time in Anambra where the people themselves have taken ownership of the campaign, donating sums to the campaign. We are still only at the introductory stage of developing Anambra. We encouraged collaboration among all stakeholders to create a state that reflects their shared values and aspirations,” the governor concluded.

The event was also graced by top government officials and APGA supporters across the state.