The National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Barr. Sylvester Ezeokenwa, has expressed strong confidence in the ongoing Anambra State governorship election, describing the electoral process as largely peaceful and credible despite encountering some technical challenges.
APGA Chairman's Assessment of Election Process
Speaking with journalists at Immaculate Parish Ward 4 on November 9, 2025, Ezeokenwa revealed that the election had been "seamless, except for a few polling units where the BVAS machines malfunctioned." He confirmed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had promptly deployed technical teams to resolve these issues across affected polling stations.
The APGA chairman also addressed concerns about missing result sheets in some areas, confirming that these problems were quickly resolved by electoral officials. He specifically commended APGA agents throughout the state for their performance, noting that "they have lived up to expectations" following comprehensive training on their electoral responsibilities.
Voter Turnout Patterns and Political Developments
On the subject of voter participation, Ezeokenwa acknowledged that turnout appeared relatively low but consistent with historical patterns in Anambra State. "Historically, Anambra records around 20 percent turnout. If you go around, you'll see it's about the same today," he observed, adding that Governor Charles Soludo had actively encouraged electorate participation amid concerns about voter apathy.
In a significant political development, the Labour Party suffered a setback at the polling unit of its 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi. At Polling Unit 019 in Agulu Ward 11, Anaocha Local Government Area, results announced around 3 p.m. showed:
- All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Nicholas Ukachukwu: 73 votes
- Labour Party candidate George Moghalu: 57 votes
- Ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA): 38 votes
Peter Obi Raises Vote-Buying Concerns
Peter Obi, who cast his ballot earlier in the day at his Umudim/Akasi Ward, voiced serious concerns about electoral malpractice during the exercise. The former presidential candidate decried incidents of vote buying, alleging that votes were being purchased for between ₦20,000 and ₦30,000.
Obi, speaking around 11:50 a.m. after voting, emphasized that this development was damaging to Nigeria's democratic process. "My personal experience is that democracy is deteriorating in our country," he stated, adding that "unfortunately, those who are the victims of bad governance seem to be fuelling it."
Despite these concerns, the APGA chairman maintained his praise for INEC officials, acknowledging their professionalism and commitment to delivering a smooth and transparent electoral exercise. Ezeokenwa stressed that APGA's primary demand remained a free, fair, and credible poll that would reflect the true will of Anambra voters.
