Valentine Ozigbo and Nze Afam Okpalauzuegbu Join APC in Anambra, Reshaping Political Landscape

 Valentine Ozigbo and Nze Afam Okpalauzuegbu Join APC in Anambra, Reshaping Political Landscape

In a groundbreaking political realignment, Valentine Ozigbo, former President and CEO of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp), has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State. This strategic move, announced less than 24 hours after his resignation from the Labour Party (LP), marks a seismic shift in the state's political terrain ahead of the 2025 governorship elections.

Ozigbo, who was the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in 2021, made his defection alongside Nze Afam Okpalauzuegbu, the former LP Secretary. The duo was formally received into the APC at their ward in Amesi, Aguata Local Government Area, a development that has sent ripples across the political spectrum in Anambra.

Valentine Ozigbo’s Political Evolution

Ozigbo's foray into politics followed an illustrious corporate career at Transcorp, where he spearheaded transformational projects and expansive growth initiatives. His transition into politics saw him clinch the PDP’s ticket for the 2021 Anambra governorship election, where he ran a high-profile campaign but was ultimately defeated by Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

Following the 2021 elections, Ozigbo aligned with the Labour Party in August 2022, becoming a pivotal figure in the presidential campaign of Peter Obi during the 2023 general elections. However, his departure from LP signals a calculated shift in political strategy, as he now aligns with the APC—a move many analysts believe could significantly alter the balance of power in the upcoming gubernatorial contest.

Why Ozigbo and Okpalauzuegbu’s Defection Matters

The defection of Ozigbo and Okpalauzuegbu is seen as a major boost for the APC in Anambra, a state traditionally dominated by APGA and PDP. Ozigbo’s widespread appeal, coupled with his corporate and political experience, positions him as a formidable force capable of influencing the APC’s prospects in the 2025 governorship elections.

In his resignation statement from LP, Ozigbo expressed gratitude to the party’s leadership and his supporters while emphasizing his commitment to the development of Anambra. He noted that recent political realities necessitated a new direction aligned with the aspirations of the people, reinforcing his decision to join the APC.

Political analysts predict that Ozigbo’s entry into the APC could reshape the dynamics of the forthcoming election. His strategic realignment suggests a broader political recalibration as parties position themselves for the crucial battle ahead.

The APC, which has been striving to strengthen its foothold in Anambra, is expected to leverage Ozigbo’s experience and influence to bolster its electoral chances. Meanwhile, other political stakeholders will be closely watching how this defection influences voter sentiment and party alliances in the coming months.

A New Era in Anambra Politics?

The fluid nature of Nigerian politics is once again on display, with high-profile defections becoming a recurring theme in the lead-up to major elections. As the 2025 Anambra governorship race draws nearer, all eyes will be on how this latest development plays out and what it means for the broader political landscape in the state.

Valentine Ozigbo and Nze Afam Okpalauzuegbu’s defection to the APC is more than just a political switch—it is a strategic move that could redefine electoral calculations in Anambra. Their transition signals a potential power shift, setting the stage for a highly competitive gubernatorial election in 2025. As political realignments continue, the race for Anambra’s leadership is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent history.