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Awka Anambra State
Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, the candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), has emerged victorious in his polling unit during the ongoing Anambra State governorship election, solidifying his influence and popularity within his home base. The election, which attracted widespread attention across the state, has been described by observers as largely peaceful, transparent, and orderly — a significant improvement compared to previous elections in the region.
Governor Soludo, who cast his vote early at Polling Unit 002, Ofiyi Square, Aguata Local Government Area, arrived at the voting venue accompanied by his wife, Nonye Soludo, and some members of his campaign team. He was greeted by a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters who chanted “Solution! Solution!!” — the slogan associated with his administration’s development agenda.
According to official results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) presiding officer at the polling unit, Soludo’s party, APGA, secured an overwhelming victory, defeating other major political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Breakdown of the Polling Unit Result
The results from Soludo’s polling unit showed a clear lead for APGA. Although the full collation of statewide results is ongoing, this early win is seen as a major morale boost for the governor and his campaign team.
Unofficial figures from eyewitness accounts indicated that APGA polled a commanding majority of votes, leaving other parties far behind. The All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Labour Party (LP) followed distantly, while smaller parties struggled to make any meaningful impact at the polling center.
The announcement of the results was greeted with loud cheers and jubilation from Soludo’s supporters, many of whom described the victory as a “vote of confidence” in the governor’s performance since assuming office in 2022.
Soludo Expresses Gratitude and Confidence in Electoral Process
After casting his vote, Governor Soludo spoke briefly with journalists, expressing satisfaction with the peaceful conduct of the election and the turnout of voters. He praised INEC officials for their professionalism and commended security agencies for maintaining calm throughout the voting process.
“This is democracy in action. I am glad to see our people coming out to exercise their franchise peacefully. The process has been smooth so far, and I commend INEC for the improvements in logistics and technology deployment,” he said.
Soludo added that he remained confident not just in his party’s prospects but in the credibility of the entire election. He noted that Anambra’s political maturity continues to grow, with increasing voter awareness and participation.
“What matters most is that the will of the people prevails. If the people decide that APGA continues to lead the state, we will continue to serve them with humility and dedication,” the governor added.
Peaceful Conduct and Improved INEC Logistics Praised
Reports from election observers across different local government areas in Anambra confirmed that the election was largely peaceful, with minimal incidents of violence or disruption. The Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) functioned effectively in most polling units, reducing the delays and complaints that marred previous elections.
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) and the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), who deployed teams to monitor the process, commended both INEC and the security agencies for ensuring that the electoral process was transparent and credible.
A representative of the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room stated:
“From our observation, the Anambra election has so far been peaceful, and the enthusiasm among voters is encouraging. The system seems to be improving, and that is good for Nigeria’s democracy.”
Supporters Celebrate Victory as Symbol of Continuity
Following the announcement of Soludo’s victory at his polling unit, supporters of APGA across Aguata and surrounding areas took to the streets in celebration. Many waved APGA flags and sang solidarity songs, describing the win as an indication that Soludo’s “Solution Agenda” has resonated deeply with the people.
One supporter, Mrs. Ifeoma Nwosu, said:
“Governor Soludo has been working tirelessly to transform Anambra. From road construction to youth empowerment and security improvement, he has shown leadership. This victory is proof that the people still trust him.”
Another voter, Mr. Chukwuemeka Okeke, added that the governor’s focus on education, healthcare, and digital innovation had endeared him to many young people in the state.
“He has invested in the future of Anambra. We voted for him again because he represents progress, and we believe he will complete the transformation he started,” he said.
Political Analysts Weigh In on Soludo’s Early Lead
Political analysts have described Soludo’s early victory at his polling unit as a strong indicator of local acceptance, but they cautioned that the broader election outcome will depend on results from other local governments.
Dr. Amaka Eze, a political science lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, noted that while winning one’s polling unit is often symbolic, it reflects grassroots support and organizational strength.
“Soludo’s ability to secure victory in his polling unit is a reflection of his local dominance and the credibility of his performance in office. However, Anambra politics can be unpredictable, and we must wait for results from other zones,” Dr. Eze stated.
Another analyst, Mr. Chijioke Ubah, added that the peaceful conduct of the election could set a new benchmark for other states.
“If the process remains peaceful throughout, it will strengthen democratic confidence and show that credible elections are achievable in Nigeria,” he said.
Opposition Parties React
Meanwhile, opposition parties have expressed mixed reactions to early results coming in from polling units across the state. Spokespersons for the APC and PDP commended INEC for its handling of the process but urged the electoral body to ensure that collation remains transparent and accurate.
An APC agent at Aguata who spoke anonymously said:
“We are monitoring the situation closely. So far, the process has been orderly, but we want INEC to ensure that every vote counts.”
Similarly, PDP representatives emphasized the importance of fair collation and prompt announcement of results to avoid speculation or unrest.
Security Presence and Public Confidence
Security presence was notably high across Anambra during the election, with combined teams of the Nigerian Police Force, Civil Defence Corps, Army, and Department of State Services (DSS) deployed to ensure safety.
In Soludo’s hometown, security operatives were stationed strategically around polling centers to prevent any breach of peace. Their professional conduct throughout the exercise drew commendations from both voters and observers.
“This is one of the most peaceful elections we’ve had in recent years,” said a community leader in Aguata. “People voted freely without intimidation, and that is commendable.”
Conclusion: A Positive Signal for Democracy in Anambra
Governor Charles Soludo’s victory at his polling unit is more than just a local triumph it symbolizes growing confidence in democratic institutions and the people’s trust in his leadership.
As collation of results continues across the state, Soludo’s win serves as a reflection of his political strength and the acceptance of his reform-driven governance approach.
Observers say that regardless of the final outcome, the peaceful atmosphere, high voter turnout, and credible process witnessed in this election mark a positive chapter in Anambra’s democratic evolution.
