A political advocacy group, the Coalition of Anambra South Progressives, has urged major political parties, including the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Labour Party (LP), and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), to field candidates from Nnewi North Local Government Area in the forthcoming Anambra South Senatorial by-election, emphasizing the need for equity and fairness.
The call follows the vacancy left by the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who passed away in July 2024. Addressing journalists in Awka on Monday, the leader of the coalition, Mr. Obi Chukwuemeka, called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to expedite the electoral process, stressing that the senatorial district has remained without representation for nearly eight months.
Chukwuemeka decried the adverse effects of the prolonged vacancy, citing stalled infrastructural projects and the loss of constituency allowances, which he claimed have significantly affected the region’s development.
“We are here today to demand fairness in the democratic process. The Anambra South Senatorial District has been without a voice in the National Assembly since the unfortunate passing of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. It is unacceptable that our people remain unrepresented for this long,” Chukwuemeka stated.
He urged INEC to announce a date for the by-election without further delay, pointing out that the Nigerian constitution does not permit prolonged vacancies in legislative seats.
Additionally, the coalition appealed to all political parties to prioritize fairness by nominating candidates from Nnewi North, arguing that this would honor the late senator’s legacy and uphold justice.
“This is beyond political strategy—it is a matter of justice and closure. The people of Anambra South must have a say in governance, and the best way to ensure fairness is to allow Nnewi North to complete its rightful tenure,” Chukwuemeka asserted.
The coalition, which comprises members across APGA, APC, PDP, and LP, emphasized that political parties must demonstrate solidarity with the people of Nnewi North.
“When we voted in 2023, many supported Senator Ifeanyi Ubah because they believed Nnewi North deserved a second term. It is only fair that the district is allowed to complete its tenure,” Chukwuemeka argued.
He also raised concerns over the 2025 federal budget, noting that the absence of a senator has deprived Anambra South of its constituency allocation, thereby stalling critical development projects and empowerment programs.
“Fielding candidates from Nnewi North is not just a political decision—it is a moral one. It will ensure that our people regain their voice in the Senate and receive what is rightfully theirs,” he concluded.
