Senator Uche Ekwunife, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy Governorship Candidate in the just-concluded Anambra State election, has extended warm congratulations to Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo following his re-election for a second term in office. In a heartfelt message released on Monday, Senator Ekwunife also expressed deep gratitude to her supporters and campaign team, describing their dedication and sacrifices as the true victory of the campaign.
In her message titled “A Message of Congratulations to Prof. Chukwuma Soludo and Gratitude to My Esteemed Supporters,” Ekwunife acknowledged that while the outcome of the election was not what her team had hoped for, the collective effort, courage, and faith of her supporters stood as a lasting symbol of unity and hope for Anambra State.
“My dear brothers, sisters, friends, supporters, and Ndi Anambra, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to every one of you who stood with us on this remarkable journey. Your unwavering support, voices, strength, time, and prayers have been the cornerstone of our campaign,” Ekwunife wrote.
She commended her running mate, Prince Dr. Nicholas Ukachukwu, for his resilience and shared commitment to serve the people of Anambra with “compassion, courage, and competence.” According to her, the campaign was never merely about winning power but about promoting a vision of leadership rooted in people, purpose, and service.
“Though the election outcome may not have been what we desired, I am profoundly proud of the effort that Prince Dr. Nicholas Ukachukwu and I did put into this race,” she said. “I am humbled by the outpouring of love and support we received that has written a victory of faith, unity, and hope — a victory that no ballot can erase.”
Senator Ekwunife, who represented Anambra Central Senatorial District in the 9th National Assembly, took time to appreciate the different groups and individuals who worked tirelessly during the campaign period. She paid tribute to young people, community leaders, volunteers, and women who, according to her, “gave their all” in the pursuit of a shared dream for a better Anambra.
“To the young people who walked the streets, the mothers who prayed through the nights, and every individual who carried our dream in their hearts, I am deeply moved by your sacrifices,” she said. “You have shown that politics can indeed be about people and purpose.”
Ekwunife emphasized that her campaign’s greatest achievement was not just its political impact but its ability to rekindle belief in participatory politics and civic responsibility among the electorate. She said her supporters’ faith in the democratic process, despite challenges, has strengthened the foundation for a more accountable and people-focused political culture in Anambra.
“What we built together goes beyond the ballot box. It is a movement of conscience and conviction — proof that democracy can still be driven by values and not merely by interests,” she said.
In a statesmanlike gesture, Senator Ekwunife urged all political actors and citizens to set aside partisan differences and unite behind Governor Soludo in the interest of peace and progress. She called on stakeholders across the state to support the administration’s development agenda and contribute to building a more prosperous, secure, and inclusive Anambra.
“As we move forward, I urge everyone to support every effort directed towards the peace, progress, and unity of our beloved Anambra State. The interest of our state must always come first,” she stated.
Ekwunife noted that true leadership is about service and collaboration, stressing that every citizen has a role to play in strengthening the democratic and developmental fabric of the state. She encouraged both political allies and opponents to channel their energy toward constructive engagement and policy-driven governance rather than division.
Senator Ekwunife congratulated Governor Soludo for securing a renewed mandate, describing his victory as an opportunity to deepen reforms and sustain ongoing projects across the state. She expressed optimism that Soludo’s experience, intellect, and vision would continue to drive positive transformation in governance and development.
“I extend my warm congratulations to His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, CFR, on his victory and re-election for a second term,” she wrote. “I sincerely wish him success in leading Anambra to greater heights. When Anambra succeeds, we all succeed.”
Ekwunife reaffirmed her belief that governance should transcend political divides, emphasizing that collaborative effort is essential for the state’s progress. She said that all hands must be on deck to address critical issues such as youth unemployment, insecurity, infrastructural development, and social welfare.
While acknowledging the end of the election season, Senator Ekwunife maintained that her commitment to public service remains strong. She assured her supporters that she would continue to champion policies that promote inclusive growth, women’s participation in leadership, and social justice in Anambra and beyond.
“This election may have ended, but our mission to make Anambra better continues. I will keep advocating for good governance, education, economic empowerment, and policies that uplift the common people,” she said.
Ekwunife, widely known for her legislative record and passion for community empowerment, reiterated that leadership is not about holding office alone but about continuously working for the greater good of the people.
She encouraged her supporters not to lose hope or retreat from civic participation, urging them to remain engaged in shaping the state’s political and economic direction through dialogue, innovation, and collective action.
“Our journey does not end here. We must continue to build, to inspire, and to serve. Every dream for a better Anambra remains valid, and together we will keep working until it becomes reality,” she added.
Ekwunife concluded her message with words of faith and gratitude, thanking God for the strength, protection, and courage that guided her campaign team throughout the electoral process. She prayed for divine wisdom for Governor Soludo and for peace, unity, and prosperity to prevail in Anambra State.
“May God bless each of you abundantly for your faith, courage, and love. May He reward every sacrifice and strengthen your hearts for the days ahead,” she said. “God bless Anambra State. God bless Nigeria.”
Her message has been widely praised across social and political circles as a model of democratic maturity, statesmanship, and humility. Political observers note that Ekwunife’s conciliatory tone and emphasis on unity reflect a deep understanding of the responsibilities of leadership in a pluralistic society like Anambra.
The former senator’s statement, analysts say, stands out for its blend of grace and conviction, serving as a reminder that politics should be a vehicle for service, not hostility. Her words also signal a call for healing and collaboration at a time when Nigerian democracy needs voices of reason and reconciliation.
As Anambra enters another chapter under Governor Soludo’s leadership, Ekwunife’s message echoes the broader sentiment that governance must focus on inclusion, development, and shared prosperity. Her acknowledgment that “when Anambra succeeds, we all succeed” encapsulates a unifying philosophy that resonates deeply with citizens yearning for progress and peace.
The message, signed by Senator Uche Ekwunife (Iyom), Ph.D., CON, serves not only as a gesture of goodwill to the governor but also as a reaffirmation of faith in democracy and the enduring power of collective hope.
“With profound gratitude and enduring hope,” she concluded, “our journey continues — guided by faith, strengthened by purpose, and inspired by the boundless possibilities of Anambra’s future.”
