Chukwuma Umeoji, one of the top aspirants for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket in the upcoming Anambra governorship election, has officially withdrawn from the race. His withdrawal comes just ahead of the party’s primary election scheduled for Saturday, April 5
Umeoji’s exit makes him the second aspirant to step down from the contest, following Mr. Paul Chukwuma who also announced his withdrawal on Friday.
The APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr. Felix Morka, confirmed Umeoji’s decision in a statement released in Abuja. According to Morka, the decision was made after wide consultations with supporters across Anambra State.
“We thank Mr. Umeoji for his aspiration and his dedicated support for the APC both in Anambra and at the national level,” Morka said. “It is our hope that he will now work towards the success of our eventual candidate in the November 8 governorship election.”
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Umeoji was among seven aspirants who purchased the APC Expression of Interest and Nomination forms for N50 million each, showing intent to contest the party’s ticket. Other aspirants include Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, Valentine Ozigbo, Johnbosco Onunkwo, and Edozie Madu.
All seven were cleared on March 10 by the APC Anambra 2025 Governorship Election Screening Committee, led by former Katsina State Governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Shema.
With Umeoji and Chukwuma stepping aside, attention now shifts to the remaining five contenders as the APC prepares to select its flagbearer for the November polls.
Chukwuma Michael Umeoji
Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Michael Umeoji, KSJI, hails from Ezinifite in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. Born into the esteemed family of Hon. Sir Andy Umeoji, a former Chairman of Aguata LGA and member of the old Anambra State House of Assembly, and Lady Ngozi Umeoji, he has a rich legacy of public service.
Umeoji pursued higher education with dedication, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1992. He further advanced his studies with a Master’s in Philosophy from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, in 2006.
Beyond academics, Umeoji has demonstrated entrepreneurial prowess. In the late 1990s, he founded Bantu Nigeria Limited, a contracting company, and later established Harvestech Nigeria Limited, a property consultancy firm. These ventures have significantly influenced the real estate sector in Anambra State.
Chukwuma’s political journey is marked by a series of impactful roles. He served as a member of the House of Representatives, representing Aguata Federal Constituency under the Labour Party from 2007 to 2011, where he championed various developmental projects. As the Executive Chairman of Aguata Local Government Area from 2014 to 2017, he initiated programs aimed at grassroots development and improved governance. He was re-elected to the House of Representatives in 2019, continuing his advocacy for infrastructural and social advancements in Aguata.
In the lead-up to the November 6, 2021, Anambra State gubernatorial election, Umeoji was initially the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) candidate. However, he faced disqualification due to alleged issues of defiance and financial concerns. Undeterred, Umeoji appealed the decision but was unsuccessful. Subsequently, he joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), where he continued to influence Anambra’s political landscape.
Chukwuma commitment extends beyond politics and business; he is deeply involved in community service. His initiatives include scholarship programs, vocational training, and financial empowerment for youths and market women. His contributions have earned him several traditional titles, such as “Dikeora Ndigbo” in Ukpo, Dunukofia, and “Oba Aguata” by the Aguata Traditional Rulers Council.
Rt. Hon. Chukwuma Michael Umeoji’s multifaceted career reflects a blend of academic excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, political dedication, and unwavering community service. His journey continues to inspire many, underscoring the impact of committed leadership in driving societal progress.
