Naijahood
Chief Ifeatu Obi-Okoye, a seasoned politician with many years of experience, serves as the Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Anambra State. In an interview with DAILY POST’s David Eleke, he expresses dissatisfaction with the 2022 amended Electoral Act, stating that it failed to address the people’s expectations. He highlights the off-season elections in Imo and Kogi as indicators that the country has reverted to old election practices. Additionally, Chief Obi-Okoye provides insights into the 2025 gubernatorial election in Anambra State and discusses various issues. Here are the excerpts.
Assessment of INEC’s Election Conduct: Chief Obi-Okoye criticizes the Electoral Act’s amendments, asserting that they did not bring the anticipated reforms. He points out discrepancies in the guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), emphasizing the need for specific legislation to ensure free and fair elections, particularly in voter accreditation.
Concerns about Imo and Kogi Elections: Chief Obi-Okoye expresses disappointment with the results of off-season elections in Imo and Kogi, seeing them as a return to old electoral practices. He calls for the National Assembly’s intervention to address these issues, emphasizing the importance of legislative actions for genuine electoral reforms.
APGA’s Performance and Prospects: Regarding APGA’s performance in the House of Assembly, Chief Obi-Okoye acknowledges a decline in seats, attributing it to internal issues, including problematic primaries. Despite the setbacks, he expresses confidence in a better performance in the upcoming elections, citing the return of disenchanted members and the governor’s achievements as positive factors.
Criticism from Former Candidates: Chief Obi-Okoye responds to criticism from former governorship candidates Obiora Okonkwo and Ifeanyi Ubah. He dismisses Okonkwo’s criticisms, citing his electoral losses and the need for political rebuilding. He questions Ubah’s intention to run for governor and emphasizes the importance of adhering to zoning traditions.
Rebuilding APGA in Anambra State: As the Chairman of APGA in Anambra State for six months, Chief Obi-Okoye discusses the challenges faced in rebuilding the party. He highlights efforts to boost party morale, address intra-party grievances, and implement new policies for political appointees. He emphasizes discipline, unity, and grassroots involvement as key elements of the party’s revival.
Governor Soludo’s Performance: Chief Obi-Okoye defends Governor Soludo’s achievements within his short time in office, citing infrastructural projects, employment initiatives, and healthcare improvements. He dismisses criticisms from opposition figures and expresses confidence in Soludo’s reelection prospects based on his governance record.
Future Election Prospects: Regarding the upcoming governorship election and potential challenges from figures like Valentine Ozigbo, Chief Obi-Okoye downplays their influence. He asserts that APGA has defeated such figures in the past and emphasizes that emotional movements like the “Obidient Movement” will not likely repeat. He urges a focus on governance and assures that Soludo’s achievements will speak for themselves in the upcoming campaign.
