The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has cautioned candidates in the forthcoming Anambra governorship election against divisive rhetoric, personal attacks and propaganda, urging them to return to issue-based campaigns.
The group issued the warning in a statement on Wednesday, signed by its factional Deputy President-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, and National Spokesperson, Chief Thompson Ohia. It said the recent conduct of leading political figures in the state had become “abhorrent politicking” that undermines the dignity of the Igbo nation.
Specifically, Ohanaeze called out the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate and incumbent governor, Chukwuma Soludo; his wife, Nonye Soludo; the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Evangelist Nicholas Ukachukwu; and his running mate, Senator Uche Ekwunife.
According to the statement, the verbal exchanges and personal accusations among the politicians represent “a sordid display of politicking captivating for all the wrong reasons.”
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly holds Governor Soludo accountable for instigating this campaign of slander against his political adversaries. It is our duty to urge him to refrain from derogatory slogans and mockery, which undermine the decency that should underpin political discourse,” the statement read.
The group also condemned the exchanges between Mrs. Soludo and Senator Ekwunife, describing them as “a lamentable affront to both motherhood and womanhood.”
While stressing that it remains politically neutral, Ohanaeze warned that if the candidates continue with such tactics, it may be forced to reconsider its stance.
“With less than two months to the November 9 election, the persistence of these disgraceful tactics raises serious questions about the moral and ethical qualifications of the candidates to govern Anambra State,” the organisation stated.
