As the November 8, 2025 governorship election in Anambra State draws closer, Action Alliance (AA) candidate, Ozo Japhet Nweke, has called for a new governance approach rooted in inclusivity, accountability, and pro-people policies.
Nweke, a political scientist, security expert, and real estate developer, insists that the state requires leadership that prioritizes citizens’ welfare over elite interests.
In a wide-ranging interview, he shared insights on his vision for governance, economic revival, security reforms, and the dangers of vote buying.
Explaining his motivation for joining the governorship race despite the financial and political hurdles, including facing an incumbent seeking reelection, Nweke said politics offers a platform to effect positive change.
“Change is constant, and the people deserve multiple options in governance,” he stated.
“I am not saying the current governor has not done well, but Anambra needs governance of inclusivity, not alienation.
“We shall bridge the gap between government and citizens, making the people the centre of governance.”
He emphasized that his candidacy was about introducing “new strategies and approaches” to solve long-standing challenges in the state.
Zoning is APGA’s arrangement
On the contentious issue of zoning in Anambra, Nweke dismissed it as a party arrangement rather than a constitutional or people-driven agreement.
“The so-called zoning was orchestrated by APGA. It has never been a consensus of the electorate, and it enthrones mediocrity,” he argued.
“Anambra people today want good governance—better infrastructure, healthcare, and livelihood—not zoning. We in AA are offering that.”
One of Nweke’s campaign slogans, “Let the masses live,” has gained visibility across the state.
He described it as a reflection of the harsh realities faced by ordinary Nigerians. “The truth is that the masses are not living well, not just in Anambra but across Nigeria.
“Corruption has entrenched suffering, creating a system that benefits only the ruling class,” he said.
According to him, AA’s manifesto is built around pro-masses policies, ensuring that governance delivers quality education, healthcare, infrastructure, and a functional economy.
“When governance is structured for the people, the standard of living rises, and the effects will be visible without needing statistics,” he added.
Tackling insecurity through employment
As a security expert, Nweke said his administration would make security and welfare a priority if elected.
“Our commitment is that within the first three months in office, insecurity would have reduced by 80 percent,” he pledged.
He explained that unemployment fuels most crimes in the state, describing them as “crimes of necessity.”
“Our strategy involves massive job creation through agriculture, alongside strengthening security agencies like the police and DSS to deter habitual criminals.
Reflecting on the high level of vote buying observed during the August 16 bye-election, Nweke warned that the practice undermines democracy.
“INEC is not the main actor in vote buying; it is the parties and candidates. But the electorate also share blame when they sell their votes,” he said.
He urged voters to resist financial inducements, warning that politicians would recover their expenses from public funds.
“If you sell your vote, you lose the moral authority to demand services. Vote buying fuels corruption and robs communities of development,” he cautioned, calling for enlightenment campaigns across the state.
Agriculture-driven economy
Nweke’s manifesto places agriculture at the heart of his economic revival agenda.
He lamented that agriculture and manufacturing currently contribute only 20 percent to Anambra’s GDP.
“We must be serious about revamping the economy. With modern technology, new farming systems, and agricultural value chains, we can raise agriculture’s contribution to 40–50 percent of GDP,” he declared.
According to him, boosting agriculture would not only ensure food security but also create jobs, reduce poverty, and position Anambra as Nigeria’s agricultural hub.
As campaigns intensify, Nweke urged political actors to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and violence.
“This election is not a do-or-die affair. Leadership is not meant solely for the ruling party but for all political stakeholders,” he said.
He called on fellow contestants to return to issue-based campaigns, focusing on solutions to the state’s pressing problems rather than personal attacks.
Summing up his vision, Nweke stressed that his candidacy is about service, inclusivity, and people-centred governance.
“We must build a state where governance is for the people, not against them.
“Let the masses live, let the economy work, let security be restored, and let development be inclusive.
“That is the message of Action Alliance,” he concluded.
