Anambra Lawmaker Murdered:APC Accuses APGA of Playing Politics with Death
The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate for the upcoming November 8, 2025 election, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, has criticized the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for what he described as an unseemly scramble to replace a slain state lawmaker whom he says was a victim of APGA’s glaring failure in managing Anambra’s security.
He described the situation as “ugly and insensitive,” especially at a time when citizens are crying out for genuine leadership amid a rising wave of insecurity.
Addressing journalists who asked for his reaction to the current state of affairs in Anambra, Ukachukwu condemned APGA for fielding a candidate for the August 16, 2025 bye-election in Onitsha North I State Constituency. The election is to replace the late Hon. Justice Azuka, who was kidnapped on December 24 while returning to his hometown, Onitsha, for Christmas. His lifeless body was discovered several days later.
Ukachukwu questioned the morality of APGA’s decision to contest the seat vacated due to a tragedy directly linked to their governance failures.
He praised the decision of the Labour Party (LP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC), who jointly endorsed the widow of the late lawmaker as a sole candidate—under the ADC platform. APGA, on the other hand, is fielding Ifeoma Azikiwe in opposition.
“How do they feel about the countless people who have died, disappeared without a trace, been assassinated, or kidnapped under the APGA administration of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo?”
“Hon. Justice Azuka died due to the government’s inability to provide basic security. Now they have the audacity to field a candidate to take his seat as though his death is just political collateral. They don’t care about the people’s safety. To them, politics is more important than human lives. If you die under their watch, they simply move on.”Ukachukwu asked.
Ukachukwu stated that if elected, his administration would prioritize security through multi-faceted strategies to protect lives and restore confidence across the state.
Speaking about his recently concluded “thank-you” tour across the 21 local government areas of the state, he described the reception he received as “overwhelming, emotional, and full of hope.”
“The people held back tears as they expressed that, finally, Anambra has found someone who understands and can solve their problems,” “This is the time for Anambra State to rise again and truly become the ‘Light of the Nation.’ That name is not just a slogan—it has meaning, and we must live up to it.”he said.
Ukachukwu criticized the current administration for its alleged use of intimidation against traditional rulers, town union leaders, and community figures, claiming that these actions target citizens who have gained nothing from the ruling party’s leadership.
Reflecting on his candidacy, Ukachukwu recounted his motivation for joining the race.
Initially, he said he had no intention of contesting, especially after discussions with the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, who, he said, had a solid developmental plan for Anambra.
He said following Senator Ubah’s untimely death he felt divinely compelled to step in.
“Throughout history, when things go wrong, God remembers His people and sends them a messenger. I believe this is that time for Anambra,” “When we say ‘Light of the Nation,’ it is not just eloquence—it reflects the legacy of a state that once served as a commercial beacon for Nigeria and West Africa.”he declared.
He lamented the deteriorating economic climate in the state, pointing to personal experiences.
Ukachukwu revealed that he operated 12 active companies across the state noting that due to the rising insecurity, all operations ceased after six expatriate staff were kidnapped and large ransoms paid.
“Persistent insecurity ruined all that,” he said.
Recalling the APC primaries, Ukachukwu noted that he emerged as the party’s flagbearer with 1,565 votes out of 2,640 delegate votes cast.
He concluded with a message of reassurance: “I urge the people of Anambra to remain calm. Help is coming. We will reverse this downward trend” he said .
