Anambra 2025: Soludo, Ubah’s Early Rivalry Intensifies Over Chieftaincy Title

In what appears to be an early clash ahead of the 2025 gubernatorial elections in Anambra State, political heavyweights, Professor Chukwuma Soludo and Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, find themselves embroiled in a power struggle over a chieftaincy title.

Senator Ubah, having recently defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Young Progressives Party, was welcomed into the party in December, alongside Senator Uche Ekwunife, fueling speculation of a potential alliance to run for governor and deputy governor under the APC banner.

The political landscape took a dramatic turn when Ubah was honored with the title of Odenjinji of Neni during the festive season, a title also held by Soludo from his Isuofia community. The jittery Anambra State government responded by suspending Igwe Damian Ezeani, who conferred the title on Ubah, accusing him of not seeking clearance and bestowing titles on individuals with “questionable character.”

The suspension triggered a wave of controversy, with critics questioning the motives behind Governor Soludo’s directive. The Anambra State chapter of the APC called for the reinstatement of Igwe Ezeani, condemning the government’s interference in traditional affairs.

Reacting to the controversy, Senator Ubah dismissed the governor’s actions as mere political maneuvering, attributing it to Soludo’s unease with his growing influence. In a phone interview, Ubah stated, “The entire game is all about politics. Soludo is being frustrated by my rising popularity.”

Amidst the escalating tensions, there are indications that eight other traditional rulers who conferred chieftaincy titles during the same period may face suspension. Monarchs are reportedly reaching out to the governor seeking forgiveness to safeguard their positions.

As Anambra braces for the 2025 elections, the early skirmishes between Soludo and Ubah underscore the intensity of the political landscape, leaving observers to anticipate a heated and closely contested gubernatorial race.