APC BEGINS SCREENING OF ANAMBRA GOV ASPIRANTS

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday officially inaugurated the Anambra State Governorship Screening and Appeal Committee ahead of the party’s April 5 primary election.

The seven-member committee, chaired by former Katsina State Governor Ibrahim Shema, began the screening process immediately after being inaugurated by APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.

Following the purchase and submission of the ₦50 million nomination forms before the deadline on Tuesday, February 25, seven aspirants have been cleared to contest.

The aspirants include Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Nicholas Ukachukwu, Chukuma Umeoj, Paul Chukwuma, Onunkwo Johnbisco Obinna, Valentine Ozigbo, and Edozie Madu.

Speaking at the inauguration, Ganduje urged the Shema-led screening panel to be fair and prevent litigation.

He said: “I am so happy with the members of the committee because we considered so many variables in picking especially the chairman of the committee who has immense experience as the governor of Katsina State for eight years.

“We have confidence in you to do justice in what you are assigned to do. Ensure that you don’t leave some gaps to make us face some litigations either within the party or outside the party.”

Addressing newsmen after his screening, Chukwuma described himself as the most qualified to fly the flag of the party.

The former APC National Auditor also backed the party’s decision to adopt the indirect primaries option.

He said, “I came prepared for the screening, and I am happy it went well. I am ready for the primary and also hopeful to be elected. I’m also convinced that the APC will win the Anambra election. I am very comfortable with either the direct or indirect primaries, or any other option for that matter.

“I have worked very hard to develop the party, and I am happy our people are ready to support me. I am the oldest of all the aspirants, each of who is eminently qualified to govern the state. But I have an edge because I am the most qualified.”

Aside from Chukwuma, two others – Okonkwo and Ukachukwu- were screened on Friday.

The remaining four aspirants would appear before the panel on Saturday.