By Cajetan Mmuta, Awka
All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in the November 8, 2025, Anambra State election, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, says the forthcoming Anambra South Senatorial by-election will be used to prove his party’s dominance in the state.
Ukachukwu made the declaration in Awka at the weekend when over 70 market unions across the three senatorial districts endorsed his governorship bid. He described the August 16 contest as a “litmus test” ahead of the governorship poll.
The Anambra South Senatorial by-election will fill the vacancy created by the death of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. At the same time, the Onitsha North 1 State Constituency election will replace the late Kate Justice Azuka, who was kidnapped and killed in December 2024.
“We will use the August 16 by-elections to show Governor Soludo that Anambra is an APC state,” Ukachukwu said. “After the polls, we will know who is in charge. We will use it to test our strength. I am a child of destiny, and I have come to ensure Anambra takes its pride of place.”
The APC flag bearer, popularly known as Ikukuoma, accused Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration of neglecting traders, who he said form the most significant economic bloc in the state.
He promised to partner with market leaders to review taxes, set up a single-digit loan scheme, and appoint a trader as Commissioner for Trade and Commerce.
“When traders grow, government revenue also grows,” he said. “As governor, I won’t allow agencies like NAFDAC to shut down markets for months. We will encourage traders to succeed, not suffocate them.”
The traders, represented by Nze Theo Obiora, said they were frustrated by insecurity, poor infrastructure, and multiple taxes under Soludo. Obiora described Ukachukwu as “detribalised and God-sent,” pledging that market leaders would mobilise for his victory.
Mrs Joy Ogbuka recalled Ukachukwu’s past support for traders, saying his record proved he would do more if elected. She dismissed claims that traders were backing Soludo, insisting that the APC candidate now enjoys their support.
