By Hon. Comrade James Onifade 
Democracy, they say, is the government of the people, for the people, and by the people. This principle came alive in Anambra State over the weekend as Governor Chukwuma Soludo secured a resounding victory, one that was driven not by party popularity alone but by performance, goodwill, and genuine connection with the people.
Governor Soludo’s good works spoke loudly for him. His policies, projects, and development efforts resonated beyond political lines, earning him widespread acceptance.
Anambra returned a verdict that good governance matters, and the people demonstrated that they understand the value of effective leadership.
Beyond Party Lines
Soludo’s victory carries a powerful message: he did not win under the so-called dominant party “ The All Progressive Congress(APC) or should we call them the All mighty convoy!!!! as they are known for election malpractice across the 36 state of the federation, but under APGA.
This proves that, sometimes, politics and success at the polls are not determined by big party structures but by tangible achievements, character, and unbiased leadership.
Even though there were reported instances of vote-buying, democracy prevailed. The people of Anambra voted for what they could see and feel. They chose continuity in good governance over short-term monetary gains.
The Numbers Tell the Story
Soludo’s victory was not just symbolic, it was historic. He won all 21 local government areas of the state, becoming the third Anambra governor to secure re-election after Peter Obi and Willie Obiano, and the first to sweep all the LGAs.
INEC confirmed the results less than 24 hours after the polls, declaring Soludo winner with 422,664 votes.
APC’s Nicholas Ukachukwu came second with 99,445 votes
YPP’s Paul Chukwuma followed with 37,753 votes
LP’s George Moghalu scored 10,576 votes
ADC’s John Nwosu received 8,208 votes
PDP’s Jude Ezenwafor got 1,230 votes
AAC’s Chioma Ifemeludike finished with 292 votes
These figures reaffirm that the masses, when united, can speak clearly and decisively.
A Democracy Worth Protecting
The Anambra governorship election is a reminder that progress and performance carry more weight than political slogans. If leaders deliver, the people will stand by them. If democracy is respected, development will follow.
This reality is not new as Osun State has shown similar patterns under Governor Ademola Adeleke. His style of governance, prioritizing welfare, infrastructure renewal, humanitarian gestures, and community-friendly interventions, has endeared him to the masses. He has put smiles on faces across the state, strengthening the belief that leadership is not merely about occupying office but about positively touching lives.
What This Means for Osun 2026
If Anambra can reward performance, Osun can do the same. Looking at Governor Adeleke’s record so far, it is evident that dividends of democracy have reached the grassroots. From infrastructural development to workers’ welfare, from education to healthcare improvement, the governor has positioned himself as a leader who understands the pulse of the people.
Going by this trajectory, 2026 might witness another example of performance-driven voting. The people of Osun, just like their Anambra counterparts, may choose to prioritize competence and integrity above party dominance.
This should serve as a wake-up call to all citizens:
• Stand up for democracy
• Value long-term development over temporary gains
• Vote wisely
• Look beyond materialistic distractions
• Demand transparency and accountability
• Guarding Democracy Against Interference
The coming elections must also serve as a challenge to any illegal military interference or external influence. Leaders and institutions must be prepared to defend the integrity of the electoral process. The Anambra election has shown clearly that no federal might can silence the will of the people.
As 2026 approaches, Osun State may be heading towards a similar story, where the people choose based on good governance, not just party structure.
ADEMOLA ADELEKE LEEKAN SII!!!
Let good governance continue!!!