'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – A leading aspirant in the All Progressives Congress (APC), Sir Paul Chukwuma, has strongly criticized the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)-led government in Anambra State, accusing it of failing to address the worsening insecurity and overall governance challenges in the state. Chukwuma, who officially submitted his nomination and expression of interest forms, promised to bring people-focused reforms if elected governor.
Addressing journalists after submitting his forms at the APC headquarters, Chukwuma lamented that insecurity in Anambra has worsened under APGA’s administration, with kidnappings, robberies, and other criminal activities becoming rampant. He accused the state government of neglecting security agencies, failing to provide necessary logistics such as patrol vehicles and intelligence support, and enacting policies that have exacerbated the situation rather than solving it.
“The current administration in Anambra State is not doing anything. Every day, people are being kidnapped, and criminals operate freely. We have asked the governor several times what he is doing with his security vote, yet nothing has changed,” Chukwuma stated.
He criticized the Anambra Homeland Security initiative, describing it as ineffective and poorly managed, with many security personnel left unpaid and unmotivated. He proposed a grassroots-based security approach, emphasizing the need for community involvement and intelligence gathering to combat crime effectively.
Beyond insecurity, Chukwuma also condemned APGA’s handling of economic development, employment, and infrastructure in Anambra. He pointed to the declining state of civil service, poor road conditions, and lack of investment in mechanized agriculture as clear indicators of the government’s failure. He vowed to implement policies that would create jobs, empower businesses, and improve the state’s infrastructure if elected.
“Currently, nothing is working in Anambra. The civil service is struggling, businesses are shutting down, and the government has not done enough to improve people’s lives. We will lead from the front and ensure that Anambra people get the good governance they deserve,” he added.
On the issue of zoning, Chukwuma dismissed claims that Anambra’s governorship should be rotated among senatorial zones, calling it a tactic by APGA to maintain control of the state. He argued that competence and the ability to deliver good governance should be the primary criteria for leadership selection, not zoning arrangements.
With the APC governorship primaries fast approaching, Chukwuma expressed confidence in emerging as the party’s candidate and leading the party to victory in the general elections. He called on Anambra residents to support APC for a new direction and a government that prioritizes the well-being of its people.
The race for Anambra’s governorship continues to intensify, with political analysts predicting a fierce contest between APC and APGA in the upcoming elections.