APGA, APC Clash Over Billboard Removals in Anambra

Tensions flared in Nri, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State, following a confrontation between supporters of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the removal of political billboards ahead of the upcoming governorship election.

The dispute began after APGA supporters allegedly dismantled billboards belonging to APC’s governorship running mate, Senator Uche Ekwunife, and Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu. The removal was reportedly due to claims that the APC candidates had not paid for the advert spaces. The incident, which occurred in Ekwunife’s hometown, sparked outrage among APC loyalists, who regrouped and attempted to resist the action, leading to a tense standoff between the two groups.

Governor Chukwuma Soludo, a member of APGA, was in the area for a political rally, which took place shortly after the burial of the former Chief Judge of Anambra State, Justice Emmanuel Nri-Ezedi. The funeral attracted several prominent figures, including former Senate President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chairman Senator David Mark, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate and former Anambra governor, Mr Peter Obi.

The political undertones of the day remained evident with the unfolding confrontation between APGA and APC supporters. In response to the unrest, the Anambra State Police Command intervened to restore order. The matter has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for further investigation.

Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the incident but did not identify the individuals involved. According to him, the disturbance followed the alleged removal of three campaign billboards by supporters of a rival party, resulting in a brief escalation of hostilities.