In Anambra State, political campaigns are taking a new turn, and money appears to be at the centre of it.
Since Governor Chukwuma Soludo declared his intention to seek a second term in office, communities, associations, and political groups across the state have launched an aggressive wave of endorsements backed with millions of naira in donations.
What began as a modest gesture from students has now become a fierce competition among towns and groups, each seeking to outdo the other in demonstrating loyalty to the governor.
The Donations Flood In
It all started with Anambra students under the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), who raised ₦3 million to help the governor purchase his re-election nomination form.
Then came the Soludo Support Groups, which contributed ₦50 million. Not long after, the three senatorial districts joined the train; the North donated ₦50 million, Central raised ₦70 million, while the South topped the list with ₦100 million.
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The Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (ASMATA) contributed ₦10 million, praising Soludo for “restoring sanity” to markets across the state. They also promised to deliver massive votes for him in the November 8 governorship election.
In Idemili South Local Government Area, the people of Oba endorsed the governor and backed their support with ₦50 million. From there, the Ekwulobia community in Aguata LGA joined in, donating ₦80 million “to appreciate Soludo for transforming the town into an urban city.”
The Obosi and Amichi communities each followed with ₦50 million donations, while the latest came from Dunukofia Local Government Area, where residents unanimously endorsed the governor and offered an undisclosed amount.
At every event, speakers praised Soludo’s road projects, youth empowerment initiatives, and reforms in education and markets. The atmosphere is usually jubilant, and community leaders frame their gestures as patriotic contributions to “continue the good work”.
Critics Cry Foul
John Nwosu, the governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has described the trend as “deeply worrisome”, warning that it could undermine both the Electoral Act and public morality.
“I am aware that some groups and towns have made humongous donations to the APGA candidate,” Nwosu said in a statement. “Such donations raise real concerns about compliance with the law, morality, and the rule of law.”
He argued that when local governments and public institutions donate campaign funds, it suggests a misuse of resources and an abuse of office.
“If cash-strapped local governments are donating millions to the governor’s campaign, that is a charade and a blatant display of official dishonesty,” he said.
Nwosu accused the ruling All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) of “attempting to buy votes and manipulate the electorate.” He urged voters to reject financial inducements and “defend their democratic rights”.
“At no time in Anambra’s political history have we witnessed such open desperation to manipulate the voting public,” he said. “Those who sell their votes are selling their patrimony, freedom, and future.”
Government’s Defence
Reacting to the criticism, the Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, said the donations were voluntary and spontaneous.
According to him, the financial support reflects the governor’s popularity and the people’s appreciation for his reforms.
“These endorsements underscore the growing confidence in Soludo’s governance,” Mefor said. “What is remarkable is that these donations came without any solicitation from the governor or his team.”
He described the movement as a “crowdfunding system” inspired by Soludo’s philosophy of “disruptive change”, insisting that the governor’s hands are clean.
“It is different from the past when candidates offered money to groups in search of votes. This time, it is the people who are contributing to sustain good governance,” he said.
Between Popularity and Patronage
As the November election draws closer, the donations have become both a symbol of political strength and a lightning rod for controversy.
Supporters see them as proof that Soludo has touched lives across the state. But critics warn that the line between genuine support and inducement is becoming dangerously blurred.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
