As Anambra State gears up for the 2025 governorship election, Valentine Ozigbo, a respected business leader, is poised to bridge the state's political divide. In a recent interview on News Central's Breakfast Central show, Ozigbo outlined his vision for governance, emphasizing coalition-building and inclusive leadership across party lines.
Ozigbo's strategy is built around uniting various political factions, which have traditionally been at odds. He pointed to widespread dissatisfaction with the current Professor Chukwuma Soludo-led administration as a key driver of his campaign's momentum. "There is hardly any institution that is comfortable with the way Anambra is being governed," he said, citing concerns from the church, market leaders, students, women, traditional rulers, and town unions.
A former candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and a prominent leader in the Obidient Movement, Ozigbo has recently joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Labour Party. His decision has been met with scrutiny, but he insists it was made in the best interest of Anambra. "If Anambra deserves better leadership and people see that leadership in me, the question then became: which party am I best suited for to run this election and bring the great dividends of democracy?" he explained.
Ozigbo's ability to navigate Anambra's diverse political landscape has led him to frame himself as a consensus candidate who can bring stability to the state. "I was the last PDP candidate, the most visible aspirant in the Labour Party, and a close ally to people in APGA who are unhappy with the current administration," he said. With the support of multiple parties, Ozigbo is positioning himself as a unifying force in Anambra politics.
As he prepares for the 2025 election, Ozigbo is banking on his ability to consolidate support across political parties and present an alternative to the current administration. His strategy marks a departure from traditional party-driven politics in Anambra, positioning him as a candidate focused on leadership rather than partisanship.
"The question is not just about parties anymore. It is about leadership, and Anambra deserves better," he said.