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Anambra Poll: Soludo in early lead as INEC uploads 99% results
The candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance in the Anambra State Governorship Election, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, is leading other candidates as the Independent National Electoral Commission continues uploading results of Saturday’s election in the state.
The incumbent governor, Charles is leading in the election results so far collated and announced with 389,789 votes. Other top contenders include Nicholas Ukachukwu of the APC with 91,592 votes, George Moghalu of the LP with 10,366 votes, and Jude Ezenwafor of the PDP with 1,230 votes.
More results are being uploaded to INEC’s result viewing portal, IReV ¹.
As at press time, INEC had uploaded over 99 per cent of election results onto its Results Viewing Portal, amid widespread accusations of vote-buying and other electoral infractions.
Despite the early arrival of election materials in many polling units, voter turnout was relatively low across the state, even though more voters collected their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the election.
A preliminary analysis of election results so far obtained across the polling units indicated that the APGA candidate was leading in his stronghold areas such as Aguata LGA in Anambra South Senatorial District and some parts of Anambra Central Senatorial District.
Anambra State has 21 LGAs, divided into Anambra North, Central, and South.
According to INEC, 2,802,790 registered voters were eligible to participate in the poll, including 140,370 newly registered voters across 326 wards.
The election was held in 5,718 polling units, as two of the expected 5,720 had no registered voters. Sixteen political parties fielded candidates, including two women.
Soludo, Ukachukwu win, LP loses polling unit
Soludo won his Umuezeadigo Street Polling Unit 002 in Isuofia, Oguata LGA.
He polled a total of 417 votes while his closest rival, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Nicholas Ukachukwu, got four votes.
The APC candidate equally won his polling Unit.
Ukachukwu voted at Polling Unit 12, Ward 2, Umudiala village in Osumenyi, Nnewi South LGA.
He got 108 votes, while APGA got four votes in booth 1, and in booth 2, APC secured 126 votes while APGA got 6 votes.
But the Labour Party candidate, Dr George Moghalu, lost his polling unit.
The LP candidate polled 22 votes to emerge runner up to Soludo, who won by 57 votes.
APGA in early lead
As of 10pm on Saturday, INEC had uploaded 99.14 per cent of results from the election on its IReV portal.
A review of results across several LGAs showed that APGA was leading in most polling units uploaded so far with the canddiate of the APC, Ukachukwu, trailing.
In Ekwusigo LGA, both parties dominated results in at least 17 polling units across three wards.
At Obi Nza Square Polling Unit, APGA polled 212 votes, while APC got 13. In Ezeokpo Central School I, APGA had 169 votes to APC’s 12, and in Nza Central School II, APGA scored 231 against APC’s 18. In the 17 polling units, APGA led with 1,548 votes, while APC trailed with 599.
A similar pattern was recorded in Njikoka LGA, where APGA polled 3,452 votes across three wards, while APC had 666.
In Aguata LGA, APGA dominated polling units across Umuchu II, Uga I, Ikenga, Isuofia, and Oraeri wards. The party secured 165 votes at Ozalla/Akukwa PU, 285 at Umugama Hall, and 302 at Ihuowele Hall, while APC’s votes ranged between 5 and 30 in most units.
In Ogbaru LGA (Ward 16), APGA maintained its momentum with 61 votes at Okpoko IV, 103 at Umuobom Hall II, and 144 at Umuobom Hall VIII, compared to APC’s 6, 4, and 9, respectively.
Onitsha North and South LGAs reflected a similar trend. In Onitsha South, APGA led with 1,548 votes across three wards, while APC recorded 599. In Onitsha North, APGA polled 103 votes at Inland Town IV and 157 at Inland Town V, while APC managed 13 and 27 respectively.
Oyi LGA also showed APGA leading with 190 votes at Umuokweanya Hall PU and 135 at Eke Olise Central School PU, while APC followed with 42 and 48 votes.
In Ayamelum LGA, APGA recorded 35 votes at Akojo Village Square III and 45 at F/S Village Square II, ahead of APC’s 8 and 30.
Across Orumba South LGA, APGA extended its lead, winning 547 votes in Umuchukwu Ward 09, 532 in Ogbunka II, and 707 in Nawfija Ward 08, while APC scored 87, 74, and 123 respectively.
In Anaocha LGA, Governor Soludo of APGA led with 2,419 votes, while the APC candidate, Nicholas Ukachukwu, polled 724 votes from the three wards uploaded as of press time.
Overall, early results from across the state indicate a clear two-horse race between APGA and APC, with APGA maintaining a wide margin.
Vote-buying: Candidates trade tackles, EFCC nabs suspects
A former Anambra State governor and Labour Party leader, Mr Peter Obi, decried rampant vote-buying during the election.
Speaking after voting at 11.46am at Polling Unit 019, Umudim Akasi, Agulu 2, Ward 8, Obi said democracy was “deteriorating” in Nigeria.
He stated, “Vote-buying is on the scale of N20,000 to N30,000. The victims of bad governance are the ones fuelling it. If a young man sells his vote for N30,000, what is his future? You are selling no school, no hospital, no job—selling your future.”
Governor Soludo, who voted around 1.30pm at his polling unit in Isuofia, expressed confidence of winning all 21 LGAs once the process worked smoothly.
He said, “Reports from across the state indicate that the election has been peaceful and smooth. We have no doubt we are going to win by a landslide.”
Soludo, however, alleged vote-buying in Nnewi South, claiming some voters were paid N15,000 each.
“It doesn’t matter for us. We are confident that with one man, one vote, we will win landslide,” he said.
The Young Progressives Party candidate, Paul Chukwuma, commended INEC and the police but accused local government chairmen of intimidating voters with thugs.
He said, “In some LGAs, mayors moved around with thugs and state-funded militia, intimidating voters with tacit support from the governor.”
But Soludo’s spokesman, Mr Chris Aburime, dismissed the claim.
“This is not true. APGA and Governor Soludo do not believe in vote-buying. Our philosophy is one man, one vote,” he said.
The APC’s Ukachukwu also alleged “widespread vote-buying” and intimidation of his supporters.
He described the development as a “dangerous norm” undermining democracy.
“Vote-buying robs citizens of their right to choose credible leaders,” Ukachukwu said.
Despite this, he expressed optimism, saying, “Winning is still possible. INEC is doing its best, and I believe in God’s will.”
The Labour Party candidate, Moghalu, lamented that monetisation had “weaponised poverty.”
While voting at Uruagu Ward 1, Nnewi, he said the process was relatively smooth but marred by apathy.
He added, “You can’t say it’s free and fair if you monetise the process. INEC must restore public confidence because voter apathy shows loss of trust in the system.”
Meanwhile, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission arrested three political party agents for alleged vote-buying in different parts of the state.
The EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, said the suspects—Emeka Ilokasia, Nwachukwu Loretta, and Emuka Chuwudi—were caught in Njikoka, Oyi, and Dunukofia LGAs, respectively.
He noted that they would be charged at the conclusion of investigation.
Councillor killed, corps member, observer injured
Tragedy struck in Orumba South LGA where a councillor representing Owerre Ezukala community was shot dead by gunmen around 1.30pm while trying to vote.
Eyewitnesses said security operatives were nearby but couldn’t stop the assailants.
A community leader, Odogwu Odemenna, who confirmed the killing, faulted security lapses.
He said, “The election was peaceful until this incident happened.”
The police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, did not respond to calls or messages on the incident as of press time.
Tension also broke out in Ihiala after policemen reportedly fired teargas canisters at the INEC secretariat, injuring a corps member and a Yiaga Africa observer.
Eyewitnesses said the officers, allegedly under the influence of alcohol, began shooting tear gas without provocation.
The police spokesperson, SP Ikenga, confirmed the scuffle but said it was resolved, describing it as a “rift between observers and ad hoc staff.”
Rivers state governor, Similayi Fubara has withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress, APC governorship primaries scheduled on Thursday, May 21.
Fubara said after a deep reflection and extensive consultations with his family, friends, and associates, “I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to withdraw from the APC gubernatorial primaries. I do so with a full heart and with a firm commitment to support whoever emerges as the candidate of our great party”.
He said leadership is ultimately about sacrifice, adding that there comes a time when personal ambition must yield to the greater good of the people.
“Rivers State is bigger than any individual, and at this critical moment, the peace, stability, and unity of our dear state must take precedence over every personal interest.
“To my supporters who stood firmly with me throughout this journey who gave their time, resources, prayers, and unwavering hope, I offer my deepest gratitude. I understand the disappointment, the anger, and the pain many of you may feel. Much has indeed been invested and much sacrificed along the way. But please know that your loyalty and trust were never in vain. My silence over this period was deliberate and strategic, guided always by the higher interest of our state and our people.
“As our elders say, not everything a hunter sees in the forest is spoken of in the marketplace. Some truths are best borne quietly, not out of fear, but out of wisdom and restraint for the sake of peace and a greater purpose. It is enough to say that I have faced immense pressures and difficult choices, but my love for Rivers State remains greater than anything else.
“I sincerely thank our great party, the All Progressives Congress, for the platform and support extended to me throughout this process. I also express my profound appreciation to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support and encouragement.
“The APC remains our collective home, and I urge all party faithful and supporters to remain steadfast and committed as we continue to build a stronger and more united future together.
“Let it be clearly understood that I stepped aside from participating in the upcoming River’s state Gubernatorial election not out of weakness, fear, or surrender, but out of conviction and sacrifice so that Rivers State may move forward in peace and unity and I remain committed to serving the good people of Rivers state till the end of my term”.
…Mbah, Otti, Anyim, Wabara, others mourn
The family of Mrs. Monica Okwunerigo Okah, mother-in-law of former Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, has announced funeral ceremonies for their late matriarch, with her burial scheduled for Thursday, May 28, 2026.
This was made known in an obituary issued on Wednesday by Engr. Isaac Okah, on behalf of the late Chief John Nnolum Okah family.
According to the family, Mrs. Okah’s final journey begins on Monday May 25, 2026 with service of songs at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Trans Ekulu, Enugu at 5pm.
A requiem mass and wake keep will be held in her honour at her country home, Enugu-Agu Achi in Oji River LGA at 5pm.
The funeral mass will hold on Thursday, May 28, at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Enugu-Agu Achi. This will be followed with condolence visits and celebration of her life.
There will be an outing and thanksgiving Service in her honour at the same church on Sunday, May 31.
According to the obituary, Mrs. Okah, who died on March 20, 2026, was a devout Christian, bridge builder, mentor, and community leader as well as a charitable, and hardworking woman.
She raised nine children, among them Lady Beatrice Nwanneka Ekweremadu, wife of former Deputy President of the Nigerian Senate and Speaker of the Parliament of the Economic Community of West African State, ECOWAS.
Meanwhile, tributes have continued to pour in ahead of the funeral ceremonies.
Leading the tributes is Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, who described Mrs. Okah’s life as one marked by selfless service to God and mankind.
“She not only lived to a ripe age of 95, but equally made indelible marks on the sands of time as a community leader, peace builder, generous giver and indeed a woman of immeasurable impacts. She bequeathed laudable legacies that will always keep her memories fresh in our hearts,” Mbah asserted.
Also, eulogising the late nonagenarian, Governor Alex Otti of Abia State described her as a fervent Christian and respected community leader.
“She made sure people around her felt loved and accepted, and was admired for her deep wisdom and guidance. She will be remembered for her inspirational leadership and commitment to uplifting people around her,” he added.
On his part, former President of the Senate, Senator Adolphus Wabara, saluted what he described as her exemplary life of service.
“Mrs.Okah lived a life worthy of honour and resemblance, touching many with her kindness, strength, and motherly presence,” Wabara stated.
Also, in his tribute, former President of the Senate and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, reflected on Mrs. Okah’s resilience and life of service.
Senator Anyim noted, “Mama’s long life is a testament to God’s grace and a legacy of resilience, love, and commitment to family and community. She lived to a ripe old age, witnessed generations grow, and fulfilled purpose on earth.”
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State has concluded its Senatorial Primaries and announced the results across the three senatorial districts, with successful candidates receiving Certificates of Return amid calls for unity and party cohesion ahead of future elections.
The announcement ceremony, which was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere, brought together senatorial aspirants, members of the Senate Primary Committee, the Enugu State APC Working Committee, House of Representatives aspirants, state lawmakers, local government council chairmen, party stakeholders, and other dignitaries from across the state.
Addressing attendees at the event, Enugu State APC Chairman, Martin Chukwunweike, described the gathering as the formal conclusion of the senatorial primary process that commenced the previous day.
He said the Senate Primaries Committee had undertaken a detailed collation process to ensure transparency, credibility, and fairness.
He commended the committee for what he termed a professionally conducted exercise and expressed appreciation to Peter Mbah for providing what he described as an enabling atmosphere for a peaceful and successful primary election process.
Speaking during the event, Chairman of the Senate Primary Committee, Funkekeme Solomon, praised Governor Mbah for his leadership style and described the conduct of party members throughout the process as disciplined and mature.
According to the committee chairman, results collated across wards and local government areas produced winners in the three senatorial districts.
For Enugu West Senatorial Zone, sole contestant Osita Ngwu secured 70,015 votes and emerged winner.
In Enugu East Senatorial Zone, with a total of 161,334 votes cast, Kelvin Chukwu polled 111,743 votes to defeat Hon. Nnaji Shalom Nwakegwu, who scored 482 votes.
For Enugu North Senatorial Zone, where 152,886 votes were recorded, Ikeje Asogwa emerged victorious with 125,089 votes, defeating Hon. Eze Chinazo F., Hon. Edith Ngozi Ugwuanyi, and Hon. Dr. Charles Ugwuanyi.
Following the announcement, the successful candidates were officially presented with Certificates of Return amid celebrations by party members and supporters.
Speaking on behalf of the victorious candidates, Senator Osita Ngwu expressed gratitude to Governor Peter Mbah and party leadership for ensuring a peaceful and seamless exercise.
He also thanked party executives and grassroots leaders across the state for their support and pledged continued commitment to the party’s ideals.
In his vote of thanks, APC State Publicity Secretary, Chief Hon. Uche Obute, commended Governor Mbah and members of the state working committee for their efforts toward sustaining peace, fairness, and unity within the party.
The event ended with renewed calls for sportsmanship and unity, as party leaders urged unsuccessful aspirants to support the party’s candidates and collective vision ahead of future electoral contests.
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