Fallout from APC Primaries: Ifeanyi Ibezi Backs Soludo, Dumps Party

The aftermath of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primaries in Anambra State has triggered a major political defection, as prominent party chieftain and former House of Representatives member, Ifeanyi Ibezi, has announced his exit from the party and declared support for Governor Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

Ibezi, who previously represented the Idemili North and South federal constituency, cited the APC’s lack of seriousness about winning the upcoming governorship election as a key reason for his decision. His move comes after the emergence of Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu as the APC’s flagbearer, defeating other aspirants who were considered more qualified by some party stakeholders.

Speaking at his residence in Abatete, Idemili North Local Government Area, Ibezi emphasized his belief that Governor Soludo deserves a second term. He praised the governor’s development projects and stated that his support would shift immediately to Soludo, adding that his allegiance now lies with performance over party loyalty.

“Soludo must go for a second term. I went on inspection of his projects, and I know he is doing well. If your party is not doing well, what will you do? Is it not to switch support to a better party?” Ibezi remarked during the meeting.

His defection comes amid wider discontent within the APC following the primaries, where three aspirants withdrew from the race citing concerns over violence and irregularities. Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, one of the aspirants, stepped down to protect the lives of his supporters, while Paul Chukwuma cited the presence of unprogressive elements in the party as his reason for withdrawing.