By Mohammed Bello Doka
As Anambra State prepares for its 2025 governorship election, the question that looms over every political conversation is not just about who will win the election, but who will control the state’s future. Will the political influence of godfathers return to the spotlight, shaping the election behind the scenes? Governor Charles Soludo, whose term began in March 2022, is eyeing a second term, but the path to securing it is anything but straightforward. The influence of godfather politics, long a fixture of Anambra’s political landscape, promises to be one of the most contentious issues of the upcoming election.
Soludo’s Ambition: Power Consolidation or Political Overreach?
Governor Charles Soludo entered office with the promise of revitalizing Anambra's economy through investment, infrastructure, and a focus on security. His administration has focused on building a sustainable future for the state, from the Anambra State Investment and Economic Development Plan to initiatives aimed at improving road infrastructure, agriculture, and technology.
Despite his achievements, there are growing concerns within the state about Soludo’s approach to governance. His critics argue that his administration is rapidly becoming an embodiment of the kind of centralized leadership that would place him in the very role of the godfather he once criticized. Dr. Nnamdi Ibezim, a political analyst and commentator, points out,
“Soludo’s success is undeniable, but it’s important to ask: can he truly avoid the trap of political patronage and godfatherism that has plagued Anambra for decades? The challenge he faces is not just about governance, but about ensuring that the old political forces do not stifle his reform agenda.”
Despite these concerns, Soludo remains an immensely powerful figure in the state. He’s positioned himself as a progressive leader, and whether his vision for Anambra is one of economic transformation or political centralization will be up to the voters. His second-term bid will undoubtedly come under scrutiny by political forces both within APGA and outside of it.
The Battle for Political Control: The Rise of New Challengers
As Soludo eyes his second term, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Labour Party (LP) are positioning themselves to challenge APGA’s dominance. The emergence of Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, a well-known businessman, former parliamentarian, and chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, has turned heads in the APC. He has been vocal in his intentions to run for governor, presenting himself as the candidate who can challenge Soludo’s grip on power. Okonkwo, widely respected for his financial acumen, is expected to use his wealth to influence the political landscape, making him a formidable opponent.
The Labour Party, buoyed by the growing support of Peter Obi, a former Governor of Anambra State, has been making waves on the national stage. Obi’s influence in Anambra cannot be underestimated, and many believe his backing could secure a strong showing for Labour Party candidates. On social media, his supporters have been pushing for a break from the traditional political elite, with one Twitter user, @AnambraForChange, writing:
"Anambra needs a leadership that focuses on the people, not on political dynasties. We need a government that serves the people, not the interests of political godfathers."
For Soludo, the challenge will be balancing his ambitions with the reality of Anambra's deeply entrenched political networks. While he may have the support of the masses, securing the backing of powerful figures in the Anambra political establishment—including former governors, party leaders, and traditional rulers—will be critical to his re-election campaign.
The Shadow of Godfather Politics: Will the Old Guard Resurface?
Anambra, historically, has been a state dominated by political godfathers. The most famous figure in this context is Chris Uba, a political kingmaker whose influence shaped the state’s political trajectory for years. Uba, although now less visible in the political scene, still holds sway over significant portions of the electorate. His network has helped propel numerous figures to power in Anambra, and his support remains a valuable commodity in the state’s political game.
Senator Andy Uba, who once held the governorship seat and remains an influential figure in Anambra politics, is another key player in this godfather landscape. Though his political alliances have shifted over the years, his continued influence among party members and grassroots organizations cannot be ignored. @PoliticalPulseAnambra on X recently observed:
“If there’s one thing Anambra politics has taught us, it’s that godfatherism is deeply rooted. Candidates who want to succeed must learn the rules of the game – and that game involves securing godfathers’ blessings.”
This age-old system of political patronage has always been a double-edged sword. While it guarantees access to power for those who can secure it, it has also led to a culture of corruption, cronyism, and stagnation. The question now is whether Soludo can navigate this system and consolidate his hold on power without being beholden to the old godfathers.
Comparing Anambra to Other States: Lessons From Lagos, Ekiti, and Osun
Anambra’s godfather politics is not an isolated phenomenon. Across Nigeria, similar dynamics play out, often with significant implications for governance. In Lagos, Bola Tinubu has built an empire of political influence, and his grip on the state’s politics is unmatched. Similarly, in Osun, former governor Rauf Aregbesola exerted a powerful influence over the state’s political landscape, shaping its policies and even determining the next generation of leaders. These examples show that godfatherism continues to play a crucial role in determining political outcomes across Nigeria.
In contrast, Ekiti offers a more interesting case study. Kayode Fayemi was able to leverage his influence to not only remain relevant in national politics but also to influence the outcomes of state elections. Fayemi’s ability to balance reform with political alliances highlights the complexity of navigating godfather politics.
Anambra, much like Lagos or Ekiti, will continue to be shaped by godfather politics, but the question remains: will it be the same players, or will new contenders disrupt the system?
The Road Ahead: Who Will Control Anambra in 2025?
As the November 8, 2025 election date draws closer, Anambra’s political landscape remains volatile. Soludo’s ambition for a second term, backed by APGA’s machinery, faces stiff competition from both APC’s Obiora Okonkwo and the rising force of Labour Party, with Peter Obi’s influence making it a three-way battle. The return of godfather politics will be a key factor in determining who controls the state for the next four years.
One thing is certain: the 2025 Anambra gubernatorial election will be one of the most scrutinized in Nigeria. Voters will have to decide whether to stick with the status quo or embrace new leadership free from the grip of political godfathers. The contest will be a referendum on the future of Anambra, its people, and the power structures that have governed it for so long.
Stay tuned to Abuja Network News for in-depth coverage and analysis of the political developments leading up to the 2025 Anambra governorship election. As the battle for control of the state unfolds, we will continue to provide exclusive insights from the corridors of power.
This article is a feature from Abuja Network News Corridors of Power.
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