3 hours ago
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ABUJA – An opinion poll conducted by 12 independent research organizations has tipped Chukwuma Umeoji, a former lawmaker representing Aguata Federal Constituency and a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as likely successor of the incumbent governor, Chukwuma Soludo.
Already the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed November 8, 2025, for the governorship election in Anambra State.
The survey conducted under the banner of Anambra Opinion Polls (AOP) highlighted the survey results, which placed Umeoji significantly ahead of other contenders.
According to Tabuko Kennedy, Director General of the Nigeria Democratic Research Institute (NDRI), the poll was carried out using scientific polling methodologies, including structured questionnaires, face-to-face and telephone interviews, and online sampling, ensuring representation from all 21 local government areas of the state.
He noted that the findings reflect the true aspirations of Ndi Anambra, as gathered from a diverse cross-section of the population, including youths, professionals, traders, artisans, and traditional institutions.
Kennedy went further to state that after an extensive survey conducted over a Six-week period, the results showed.
“Rt Hon Chukwuma Umeoji (54.6%) The clear frontrunner receiving majority support across different demographics due to his perceived competence, grassroots appeal, and commitment to infrastructural development and social welfare.
“Governor Chukwuma Soludo (22.3%) – The incumbent governor, who retains significant support but faces challenges due to governance concerns, policy controversies, and shifting voter sentiments.
“Sen. Tony Nwoye (15.8%) – A formidable contender with notable youth and grassroots support but struggling to consolidate broad-based appeal.
“Sur Paul Chukwuma (4.5%) – Having served as a former Auditor in the main opposition party in the state, he has gained traction among certain political circles but yet to establish widespread acceptability,” among others.
The AOP further analysed the strength of aspirants contesting for the number one position in Anambra based on the results from the poll.
“Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Umeoji’s dominance in this poll is attributed to his grassroots connection, strategic political positioning, and reputation for pragmatic leadership. His extensive political career, including his tenure in the National Assembly, has earned him credibility among different voter demographics. His key support base includes traders, the youth, and local political structures that view him as a candidate capable of driving economic transformation in Anambra.
“His acceptance is further reinforced by his focus on people-oriented policies, particularly in areas of security, infrastructure, and job creation. His overwhelming lead in this poll suggests that, if elections were held today, he would likely emerge victorious.
“Governor Chukwuma Soludo (22.3%) – Governor Soludo, despite being the incumbent, has seen a decline in public approval. While his administration has implemented reforms, issues such as economic hardship, policy dissatisfaction, and governance concerns have affected his re-election chances.
“His support base remains relatively strong among technocrats, elites, and civil service personnel, but he is struggling to maintain a firm grip on the grassroots. Many respondents in this poll expressed concerns about the impact of his economic policies on small businesses and traders, which has led to a shift in voter sentiment. While he is still a strong contender, his re-election is uncertain unless significant political adjustments are made.
“Sen. Tony Nwoye (15.8%) – Senator Tony Nwoye, a former student activist and a politician with a history of strong grassroots mobilization, has a formidable youth support base. His experience in the Senate and previous gubernatorial runs have earned him recognition, particularly among students, young professionals, and those seeking an alternative leadership option.
“However, his campaign faces challenges in expanding beyond his core support base, as he has not fully consolidated the broader political structures required for victory. His growing numbers in this poll indicate potential for an upset if he intensifies his outreach efforts.”
On the poll credibility, the AOP emphasized the credibility of the 12 research organizations involved, noting their integrity, methodological rigor, and commitment to non-partisan electoral research.
“These organizations have a proven track record of conducting accurate, independent, and non-partisan research in Nigeria and beyond. These institutions specialize in political polling, electoral research, governance, analysis, and voter awareness initiatives,” the poll results also signed by Prof. Chika Udeh, Executive Director, Anambra Policy and Governance Research Institute (APGRI), Dr. Olufemi Adebayo, Lead Researcher, African Centre for Political and Electoral Studies (ACPES), Mr. Gregory Nwankwo, National Coordinator, Global Opinion Polling Network (GOPN) among others stated.
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