By Jude Atupulazi
A delegation of political stakeholders and grassroots mobilisers under the aegis of Valiant Movement, Monday, purchased a N50 million Gubernatorial Expression of Interest Form of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Valentine Ozigbo, who recently, joined the party.
Led by Chief Teddy Ezeike and Chief Mike Mbanefo, the delegation arrived at the APC National Headquarters in Abuja and addressed the media, stating that the purchase of the form was a declaration of political intent and a strategic step towards a transformative leadership for Anambra.
Speaking at the press briefing, Chief Ezeike underscored the movement’s commitment towards installing what he described as competence, character and compassion in Anambra’s leadership, asserting that Ozigbo’s candidacy, represented a departure from the status quo.
His words, ‘We proudly announce that we have purchased the N50 million All Progressives Congress (APC) Gubernatorial Interest Form for Valentine Ozigbo, the people’s candidate, and the man poised to lead Anambra into a new era of progress and transformation.
‘This move is to demonstrate our resolve to ensure, this year, that transformational leadership is entrenched in Anambra State,’ Ezeike added.
Describing the moment as a turning point in the political History of Anambra, Ezeike said the purchase of the form symbolised a rallying call across all corners of the state.
‘It is a rallying cry from the streets of Onitsha to the fields of Ayamelum, from the marketplaces of Nnewi to the hills of Aguata – a call for a leader who understands our struggles, shares our dreams, and possesses the competence, character, and compassion to chart a new course for Anambra,’ he stated.
The decision by the Valiant Movement, a youth-driven political force, to back Valentine Ozigbo is the latest in a string of political realignments that have positioned him as a leading contender for the governorship.
Chief Mbanefo, speaking on behalf of the movement, described Ozigbo as a bridge between the grassroots and the elite and credited him with redefining political engagement in Anambra.
‘His political journey has been one of resilience, principle, and excellence. From his impressive governorship race in 2021, his role as Special Adviser to Peter Obi in 2023, to his leadership role in the Obidient Movement, Valentine Ozigbo has proven his ability to connect with the people, inspire a movement, and deliver on his promises,’ Mbanefo said.
He further highlighted Ozigbo’s broad appeal across Anambra, citing independent polls, he said, that placed him ahead of the incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo, in grassroots popularity.
In his reaction, Ozigbo expressed gratitude to the Valiant Movement for their support, acknowledging the youth-led initiative as a testament to the demand for fresh leadership in Anambra.
‘Today is extraordinary; as the youth of Ndi Anambra take a firm step forward for my candidacy. I am profoundly humbled by the confidence the Valiant Movement has placed in me,’ Ozigbo said.
He expressed gratitude to Chief Teddy Ezeike and Chief Mike Mbanefo, who, he said, were present to represent the collective aspirations of the members of the Valiant Movement.
Ozigbo pledged to uphold the ideals of competence, character, and compassion in his leadership and vowed to deliver a governance model focused on development, inclusivity, and progress.
‘The Valiant Movement has spoken loud and clear. Our people are ready for a leadership built on character, competence, and compassion. With every sense of responsibility, I accept this call to serve and promise that, by the grace of God, I will make you proud. Ka Anambra Chawapu,’ Ozigbo added.
Ozigbo’s entrance into the APC Gubernatorial Race follows his recent defection from the Labour Party, a move, it is believed, that has reshaped political dynamics in the state.
