ABUJA, Nigeria – A delegation of political stakeholders and grassroots mobilisers under the Valiant Movement on Monday formally purchased the N50 million gubernatorial interest form of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Valentine Ozigbo, marking a significant development in Anambra State’s political landscape ahead of the 2025 governorship election.
Led by Chief Teddy Ezeike and Chief Mike Mbanefo, the delegation arrived at the APC National Headquarters in Abuja and addressed the media at 2:20 PM, framing the purchase as a declaration of political intent and a strategic step towards a transformative leadership for Anambra.
A Statement of Resolve;
Speaking at the press briefing, Chief Ezeike underscored the movement’s commitment to installing “competence, character, and compassion” in Anambra’s leadership, asserting that Ozigbo’s candidacy represents a departure from the status quo.
“We proudly announce that we have purchased the N50 million All Progressives Congress (APC) Gubernatorial Interest Form for Valentine Ozigbo, the people’s candidate and the man poised to lead Anambra into a new era of progress and transformation,” Ezeike said.
“This move is to demonstrate our resolve to ensure, this year, that transformational leadership is entrenched in Anambra State,” he added.
Describing the moment as a turning point in the political history of Anambra, Ezeike said the purchase of the form symbolised a rallying call across all corners of the state.
“It is a rallying cry from the streets of Onitsha to the fields of Ayamelum, from the marketplaces of Nnewi to the hills of Aguata—a call for a leader who understands our struggles, shares our dreams, and possesses the competence, character, and compassion to chart a new course for Anambra,” he stated.
The Ozigbo Factor: A Game-Changer in Anambra Politics;
The decision by the Valiant Movement, a youth-driven political force, to back Valentine Ozigbo is the latest in a string of political realignments that have positioned him as a leading contender for the governorship.
Chief Mbanefo, speaking on behalf of the movement, described Ozigbo as a bridge between the grassroots and the elite and credited him with redefining political engagement in Anambra.
“His political journey has been one of resilience, principle, and excellence. From his impressive governorship race in 2021, his role as Special Adviser to Peter Obi in 2023, to his leadership role in the Obidient Movement, Valentine Ozigbo has proven his ability to connect with the people, inspire a movement, and deliver on his promises,” Mbanefo said.
He further highlighted Ozigbo’s broad appeal across Anambra, citing independent polls that place him ahead of incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo in grassroots popularity.
Ozigbo Reacts: ‘I Accept This Call to Serve’;
In his reaction, Ozigbo expressed gratitude to the Valiant Movement for their support, acknowledging the youth-led initiative as a testament to the demand for fresh leadership in Anambra.
“Today is extraordinary; as the youth of Ndi Anambra take a firm step forward for my candidacy, I am profoundly humbled by the confidence the Valiant Movement has placed in me,” Ozigbo said.
“I am grateful to Chief Teddy Ezeike and Chief Mike Mbanefo, who are present here to represent the collective aspirations of the members of the Valiant Movement. I am grateful to the Almighty God for bringing us this far in our journey.”
Ozigbo pledged to uphold the ideals of competence, character, and compassion in his leadership and vowed to deliver a governance model focused on development, inclusivity, and progress.
“The Valiant Movement has spoken loud and clear—our people are ready for a leadership built on character, competence, and compassion. With every sense of responsibility, I accept this call to serve and promise that, by the grace of God, I will make you proud. Ka Anambra Chawapu,” Ozigbo added.
A Political Shift with Wider Implications;
Ozigbo’s entrance into the APC gubernatorial race follows his recent defection from the Labour Party, a move that has reshaped political dynamics in the state.
His candidacy is expected to galvanise support across party lines, positioning him as a formidable challenger in the forthcoming elections.
With the purchase of his nomination form, the Valiant Movement has signalled its intent to drive a robust campaign, leveraging Ozigbo’s grassroots appeal, corporate experience, and political influence to challenge the incumbent administration.
In the coming weeks, political observers will be watching closely to see how Ozigbo’s candidacy reshapes the competition within APC and how his campaign strategy will mobilise the electorate in Anambra State.
