Tragedy Strikes Anambra Governorship Election
Anambra State was plunged into mourning as Governor Charles Soludo confirmed the brutal assassination of a local councillor during the recently concluded governorship election. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday, November 8, 2025, casting a shadow over the electoral process in the southeastern state.
Governor Soludo, who secured re-election as the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate, made the heartbreaking announcement on Sunday, November 9, describing the killing as "very unfortunate" and calling for peace in the troubled region.
Details of the Fatal Attack
The violent attack unfolded at Owerre Ezukala community in Orumba South Local Government Area, where the councillor, a known APGA chieftain, had just exercised his democratic right. According to eyewitness accounts and official reports, the politician was returning home after casting his vote when armed assailants intercepted him.
The victim was shot dead at Owerre Ezukala Ward 1 in what appears to be a targeted political assassination. Governor Soludo revealed that preliminary investigations suggest the perpetrators "came from across the border" specifically to cause mayhem during the election process.
In his official statement, the governor expressed deep sorrow, stating: "I also note with sadness the sad news that some hoodlums went to a community. We understand they came from across the border, caused mayhem and even killed one of our supporters, a councillor who had just voted and was heading home."
Security Response and Election Outcome
Despite this tragic incident, Governor Soludo praised security agencies for their overall performance during the election. He acknowledged that security forces had successfully thwarted multiple plans to disrupt the electoral process across Anambra State.
The 2025 Anambra governorship election proceeded as scheduled on November 8, with Professor Soludo emerging victorious against candidates from major political parties including:
- All Progressives Congress (APC)
- Young Progressives Party (YPP)
- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
- Labour Party (LP)
The election outcome marks Soludo's successful bid for a second term, though the celebration was tempered by the violence that claimed the life of a dedicated party member.
In a related development, a viral video circulating online showed police officers attached to Governor Soludo's security detail firing celebratory gunshots into the air following the declaration of his victory. While such displays are common in Nigerian political celebrations, they highlight the complex security environment in the region.
The assassination of the councillor raises serious concerns about political violence in Nigeria's electoral process and underscores the ongoing security challenges facing Anambra State and the broader southeastern region.
