The Deputy Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the just-concluded Anambra Governorship Election, Senator Uche Ekwunife, has congratulated Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo on his re-election victory, while expressing deep gratitude to her supporters across the state for their steadfastness throughout the campaign.

In a statement personally signed by her on Monday titled “A Message of Congratulations to Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and Gratitude to My Esteemed Supporters,” the 9th Senate Lawmaker described the election as a remarkable journey marked by faith, unity, and resilience.

She thanked her principal, Prince Dr. Nicholas Ukachukwu, members of the campaign team, and all supporters who believed in their vision to serve Anambra with compassion, courage, and competence.

“Though the election outcome may not have been what we desired, I am profoundly proud of the effort we put into this race,”.

“I am humbled by the outpouring of love and support we received a victory of faith, unity, and hope that no ballot can erase”, Ekwunife said.

The former Anambra Central Lawmaker particularly appreciated the young people who took to the streets, the mothers who prayed through the nights, and every individual who shared in her dream for a better Anambra, noting that their passion reflected that “politics can indeed be about people and purpose.”

Ekwunife called on all stakeholders to rally behind the newly re-elected governor in the collective interest of the state, emphasizing that the peace, progress, and unity of Anambra must remain paramount.

“I extend my warm congratulations to His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, on his victory and re-election for a second term,” she said. “When Anambra succeeds, we all succeed. I encourage everyone to join hands to build a stronger and more prosperous state.”

Her message of goodwill comes at a time when the APC Governorship Candidate, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, has rejected the election outcome, alleging intimidation, violence, and manipulation during the voting process.

Ukachukwu, who addressed journalists in Awka, described the election as marred by attacks on his supporters, some of whom were injured or had their homes and vehicles destroyed.

“We thank members of our team they are all gallant soldiers, winners in different ways, including those who were intimidated and those whose properties were burnt. Even my deputy was threatened and had to flee for her life,” Ukachukwu alleged.

The APC candidate disclosed that he was in consultation with his supporters and party stakeholders before deciding on his next steps, emphasizing that his team was still collating reports from polling agents across the state.

He further claimed that one of his supporters, who was responsible for paying party agents, was arrested on accusations of vote buying.

“They said the money was for buying votes. Can I buy votes against a sitting governor who has the state’s treasury? The result shows clearly who bought votes,” he said.

Despite his grievances, Ukachukwu maintained that his 99,000 votes were an impressive showing for the APC in Anambra and proof that the party’s presence could no longer be dismissed.

“Those 99,000 people who voted for us did so because they believe Anambra must be better. They are the ones I will consult about our next move,” he added.

While Ukachukwu maintains that justice must be pursued through proper channels, his running mate, Senator Ekwunife, has taken a conciliatory approach emphasizing peace, collective progress, and the unity of Ndi Anambra.

The APC Deputy Governorship Candidate concluded her message with prayers for her supporters, expressing gratitude for their courage, sacrifices, and love.

“May God bless Anambra State. May God bless Nigeria,” she added. (The Sun)