Political tension has gripped Anambra South Senatorial District as some prominent members of major opposition parties including the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC) have openly declared support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Sir Azuka Okwuosa, just hours before the senatorial by-election.
The defecting party loyalists, speaking to reporters, explained that their decision was not primarily about supporting APC as a party, but about backing Okwuosa as an individual they believe is the right man for the job.
“Azuka is our own. We’re not voting APC because we want to; we’re voting APC because Sir Azuka Okwuosa is the right man for the job, and he is our own,” one of the leaders stated.
They also cited sentimental and historical ties, noting that late Senator Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, whose seat is now vacant is also a member of APC.
“For that reason, we will support APC and Azuka to replace late Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah at the Red Chambers,” another supporter added.
The unexpected cross-party endorsement has stirred confusion and political recalculations among other candidates, as the by-election seen as a crucial test of political influence in the district kicks off in a matter of hours.
