In a strategic move to strengthen political ties, Abdullahi Ganduje, National Chairman of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), has vowed to connect Anambra State to the federal government’s “national grid” ahead of the November gubernatorial election.
Speaking during the inauguration of the party’s state secretariat in Awka on Saturday, Ganduje emphasized the need for Southeast Nigeria to align with the central government to access developmental benefits.
Ganduje described the Igbo ethnic group, predominant in the Southeast, as “Nigeria’s most nationalistic tribe,” citing their widespread presence across the country.
However, he criticized the region’s historical disconnect from federal governance, urging voters to embrace the APC.
“Connecting to the center isn’t just symbolic – it’s practical,” he stated, comparing the region’s current political stance to “relying on generators instead of the national power grid.”
The chairman referenced historical figures like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Nigeria’s first president, and Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, the late Igbo leader, to underscore the Southeast’s legacy of national unity.
“We aim to revive the spirit of inclusivity seen during Azikiwe’s era and Ojukwu’s reintegration into a united Nigeria,” Ganduje added.
Tinubu’s Reforms and Regional Benefits
Ganduje linked the APC’s vision to President Bola Tinubu’s economic and security reforms.
He highlighted improvements in crude oil production, which the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) reports has risen to 1.5 million barrels per day as of May 2024 – a 25% increase from late 2023.
The national chairman also pointed to currency stabilization, with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) noting a 15% appreciation of the naira against the dollar since January 2024.
On security, Ganduje cited data from a recent Southeast Security Summit indicating a 30% drop in kidnappings and armed attacks across the region.
“These strides reflect Tinubu’s commitment to unifying and strengthening Nigeria,” he asserted.
APC’s Anambra Ambitions
The newly inaugurated secretariat, funded by governorship aspirants including Professor Obiora Okonkwo, signals the APC’s resolve to compete in a state traditionally dominated by the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
Okonkwo, a frontline candidate, pledged to secure victory if nominated, declaring, “With the party’s ticket, I’ll deliver the Anambra Government House to the APC.”
The event showcased the APC’s growing mobilization, as aspirants mobilized large crowds of supporters. Political analysts suggest this marks a shift in strategy for the party, which has yet to win a gubernatorial race in Anambra since the state’s creation in 1991.
Strategic Shift for the Southeast
Anambra’s political landscape has long been shaped by regional parties, with APGA holding the governorship since 2006 under leaders like Willie Obiano and incumbent Charles Soludo.
The APC’s push aligns with its broader goal to expand influence in the Southeast, a region critical for national cohesion.
Ganduje’s rhetoric reflects a blend of cultural pride and pragmatic politics, aiming to resonate with Igbo voters ahead of the November 8 election. As the APC intensifies its campaign, the coming months will test whether the party can translate promises into electoral success – and redefine Anambra’s political trajectory.