A leading aspirant for the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship ticket in Anambra State, Professor Obiora Okonkwo, has officially withdrawn from the ongoing primaries at the Women Development Centre in Awka on Saturday.
Okonkwo’s decision to step down follows the earlier withdrawals of other aspirants, Chukwuma Umeoji and Paul Chukwuma, leaving four contenders still in the race for the APC’s gubernatorial ticket. The remaining aspirants are Nicholas Ukachukwu, Onunkwo Johnbisco Obinna, Valentine Ozigbo, and Edozie Madu.
In a letter dated April 5, 2025, titled “Withdrawal from All Progressives Congress Gubernatorial Primary Election,” Okonkwo explained his decision, citing developments in the primaries that were at odds with his principles and values. He stressed that while the decision was difficult, it was necessary to protect the safety of his supporters and uphold his core beliefs.
The letter read in part: “Dear supporters and fellow Anambrarians, after careful evaluation and reflection on the current state of the APC primary election process, I have decided to withdraw my aspiration for the party’s governorship ticket. This decision was a difficult but necessary one because of some developments that are inconsistent with my principles and values. The project is not worth risking the lives of my supporters, among other reasons.”
Okonkwo further emphasized his continued commitment to public service and the socio-economic development of Anambra State, stating that he would remain active in supporting the growth of the state and the country. “My passion for public service remains strong, and I will continue contributing to the development of Anambra State and Nigeria as a whole,” he added.
He also reiterated his support for President Bola Tinubu’s development agenda and economic initiatives for the nation, expressing gratitude for the trust and backing he had received from his political associates and supporters.
Okonkwo concluded by expressing hope for the future of Anambra State, stating, “Above all else, may Anambra succeed for its future generations.”
His withdrawal marks a significant development in the APC primaries, as the remaining candidates now compete for the party’s ticket to contest the upcoming 2025 gubernatorial election in Anambra.
