The Anambra Opinion Polls (AOP), conducted by 12 reputable research organizations, has revealed that Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Umeoji is the clear front-runner in the Anambra State governorship election, scheduled for 2025.
According to the poll results, Umeoji garnered an impressive 54.6% of the votes, followed by Governor Chukwuma Soludo with 22.3%, and Senator Tony Nwoye with 15.8%. Other aspirants, including Sir Paul Chukwuma, Dr. Obiora Okonkwo, and Barth Nwibe, trailed behind with 4.5%, 2.1%, and 0.7% respectively.
The poll, which was conducted over a six-week period, sampled opinions from a diverse cross-section of the population, including youths, professionals, traders, artisans, and traditional institutions, across the 21 local government areas of Anambra State.
The AOP attributed Umeoji’s dominance in the poll to his grassroots connection, strategic political positioning, and reputation for pragmatic leadership. His extensive political career, including his tenure in the National Assembly, has earned him credibility among different voter demographics.
“Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Umeoji’s lead in this poll is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the people of Anambra State,” said Tabuko Kennedy, Director General of the Nigeria Democratic Research Institute (NDRI), one of the research organizations that conducted the poll. “His ability to connect with the grassroots and his reputation for integrity have made him a favorite among voters.”
The poll also revealed that Governor Soludo’s decline in popularity is due to concerns about his economic policies, governance issues, and perceived disconnect from the grassroots.
“Governor Soludo’s administration has implemented some reforms, but issues such as economic hardship, policy dissatisfaction, and governance concerns have affected his re-election chances,” said Prof. Chika Udeh, Executive Director of the Anambra Policy and Governance Research Institute (APGRI). “He needs to address these concerns and reconnect with the grassroots if he hopes to regain his popularity.”
The AOP urged all political stakeholders to recognize the credibility and neutrality of the poll as a reflection of the people’s will. The organization also called on candidates to engage in issue-based campaigns and on the electorate to actively participate in shaping the future of Anambra State through their votes.
“We urge all candidates to focus on issue-based campaigns and to avoid divisive rhetoric,” said Dr. Olufemi Adebayo, Lead Researcher of the African Centre for Political and Electoral Studies (ACPES). “We also call on the electorate to participate actively in the electoral process and to demand accountability from their leaders.”
The poll results have been hailed as a credible reflection of the political landscape in Anambra State, with many analysts predicting a keenly contested election in 2025.