The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) will hold its primary election on May 23, 2026, to select candidates for the governorship, Senate, House of Representatives, and House of Assembly races. The date aligns with the timetable set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). APGA has been the dominant political party in Anambra State for 20 years, having first taken power on March 17, 2006, through a court judgment that awarded victory to its 2003 governorship candidate, Peter Obi. The party's strong grip on the state has made its ticket highly sought after, with many aspirants viewing it as a near-guarantee of victory.
In February 2024, APGA conducted primaries for local government positions scheduled for August, and selected candidates have already held thanksgiving services, reflecting public confidence in the party's electoral dominance. The upcoming 2026 primaries will see intense competition across all 30 state constituencies, 11 federal constituencies, and three senatorial zones. In Anambra North, Senator Stella Oduah, Chief Primus Odili, and Dr Alex Obiogbolu are among those contesting for the senatorial ticket. Oduah cites her experience as a former senator and aviation minister, Odili emphasizes his grassroots support and role as former Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Willie Obiano, while Obiogbolu highlights his position as immediate past Senior Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Obiogbolu also serves as the National Leader of APGA. Some party elders have raised concerns about Oduah's eligibility, referencing her plea bargain deal in a N2 billion fraud case. Others question Obiogbolu's membership, noting his role as Director-General of the PDP governorship campaign in 2021. In Idemili North and South Federal Constituency, Chief Ikenna Iyiegbu and Dr Ifeanyi Ibezi are locked in a struggle, with Ibezi's planned stakeholders meeting blocked by the local government chairman over alleged security risks. APGA has set the cost of nomination forms at N25 million for governorship, N15 million for Senate, N12 million for House of Representatives, and N6 million for House of Assembly. All aspirants must present their highest academic qualifications during screening. The primaries will be conducted at the ward level under option A4, with appeals to be resolved by May 28, 2026.
Governor Soludo leads APGA as aspirants pay millions for tickets, yet one of his top aides is fighting allegations of recent opposition loyalty. The party that prides itself on internal democracy now faces questions over the membership status of a candidate closely tied to its national leader. If proximity to power is rewarded over party history, the integrity of the primary process could be undermined. This sets a precedent where past affiliations may matter less than current connections.
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