The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate, Chioma Ifemeludike, with some of her supporters has staged a peaceful demonstration in Awka.
Ifemeludike said the demonstration was to express dissatisfaction over what she described as ANSAA’s “blatant disregard” for her candidacy and an act of gender discrimination.
She said, “No circular or exemption notice was sent to me,” she said.
“The letter was reportedly released on June 11, but I only found out today. This lack of communication reflects a dangerous mindset that a woman cannot lead Anambra State,” she said.
Ifemeludike further called on the state government and ANSAA to treat all registered political parties equally, regardless of gender, status or political affiliation.
She emphasized that all parties recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deserve the same level of respect and consideration.
“I am in this race to restore the dignity of Anambra State. I will not be intimidated and I will not be left out,” she declared.
ANSAA clarifications
Meanwhile, the Managing Director, Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSAA), Odili Ujubuonu, has defended the decision of his agency.
Addressing newsmen in Awka, Ujubuonu described the payment as essential for coordinating an organized and legally-compliant visual campaign across 175 communities in Anambra.
He said the ₦50 million fee covers five months of sustained visibility through posters and banners in towns and villages.
The ANSAA MD contended that the cost will be higher if billed individually.
“When you calculate the charges we collect from regular citizens and others using the ‘Anyiora’ platform, you will realize politicians are looking to bypass the system,” he explained.
“This fee is the only campaign cost that goes directly back into the state internally generated revenue (IGR), which funds road construction and essential infrastructure.”
The ANSAA boss added that official letters notifying candidates of the payment were sent to all major aspirants, including the incumbent Governor, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo.
However, he noted that women and youth aspirants were still under review and were not issued the circular.
Despite this clarification, the policy has drawn criticisms from some candidates who say they were not informed and have been unfairly treated.
