As the All Progressives Congress (APC) gears up for its crucial April 5 governorship primary in Anambra State, the political stakes have never been higher. The party sees this election as an opportunity to solidify its presence in the South-East and showcase its commitment to governance with credibility and competence.
The upcoming Anambra governorship election in November 2025 is significant as the last off-cycle gubernatorial poll before the 2027 general elections. It serves as a test of the APC’s progress in the South-East and its ability to provide leadership beyond its traditional strongholds. Against this backdrop, stakeholders within the party are advocating for a candidate with broad appeal and strategic value—one name that has gained momentum is Valentine Ozigbo.
Ozigbo, a former corporate leader and philanthropist, has been identified as a formidable contender. Having previously contested the 2021 election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he finished as the runner-up, Ozigbo has remained active in Anambra’s political discourse. His recent defection to the APC is seen as a potential game-changer, with supporters arguing that he brings credibility, political structure, and a unifying influence.
Despite speculation that Ozigbo may be a mole for the Labour Party’s Peter Obi, his backers dismiss the claims, asserting that his political ambition is independent and aligned with APC’s vision for Anambra. They argue that his candidacy does not translate into electoral gains for Obi in 2027.
Ozigbo’s credentials span both corporate and public service. As the former Managing Director of Transcorp Hilton Abuja and later Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, he led significant economic initiatives, including a $100 million hotel renovation. Beyond business, he has invested in youth empowerment through the VCO Foundation, sponsoring 100 Anambra youths in software engineering.
His political strength lies in his grassroots appeal, cross-party connections, and reputation as a bridge-builder. A confidential APC evaluation reportedly ranks him highest among the party’s aspirants, scoring 74% in key areas such as zoning, religious alignment, and public acceptability.
With Anambra’s political landscape deeply influenced by party loyalty, regional interests, and governance expectations, Ozigbo’s backers argue that his candidacy presents the APC with its best chance of securing victory. They contend that his leadership transcends political affiliations and embodies a results-driven approach, which resonates with voters.
As the APC primary approaches, the party faces a critical choice: selecting a candidate who can merely win the primary or one capable of securing the governorship. For many within the party, that choice is clear—Valentine Ozigbo.
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