Just ten days after being named the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the upcoming gubernatorial election in Anambra State on November 8, Prince Nicholas Chukwujekwu Ukachukwu has been presented with stringent requirements to secure the backing of the Catholic Church in the region.
According to source the primary stipulations for the APC gubernatorial candidate include appointing a deputy from the Catholic community and ensuring that 60 percent of his cabinet comprises Catholics.
Simultaneously, Ukachukwu has been approached by numerous lobbyists seeking the position of running mate, while he has also been engaging with key APC stakeholders in the state to establish consensus with various women’s groups advocating for gender equality.
According to Source, the selection process for Ukachukwu’s running mate has been narrowed down to two former female Senators: Dr. Uche Lilian Ekwunife and Dr. Margery Okadigbo, who represent the Central and North Senatorial Districts of the state, respectively.
Although both candidates are Catholics, the issue of zoning is influencing their prospects. Ekwunife, who is more politically active, comes from the populous Anambra Central District, while Okadigbo is from Anambra North, which has recently completed an eight-year governorship under Willie Obiano.
Additionally, Ekwunife’s roots in Igboukwu within the Aguata Local Council and her current role as the Director General of the South East Governors’ Forum are working in her favor, as her candidacy is anticipated to attract votes from the Old Aguata Union, the home area of the incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
