2027: AAC Candidate Withdraws From Anambra Senatorial Race

The African Action Congress (AAC) candidate for the Anambra Central Senatorial District, Chioma Ifemeludike, has withdrawn from the 2027 senatorial race, saying her decision was driven by personal convictions and recent developments she believed raise concerns about justice and accountability.

Ifemeludike, who also serves as the AAC Deputy National Chairperson (South-East), announced her withdrawal in a letter addressed to the party’s Acting National Chairperson. The letter was made available to journalists on Friday.

She had emerged as the party’s consensus candidate during the AAC senatorial primary election earlier held in May.

In the letter, Ifemeludike requested that her name be removed from all records, processes and considerations relating to the Anambra Central Senatorial District candidature.

“I hereby formally notify the National Working Committee and the leadership of the African Action Congress of my decision to withdraw my interest and aspiration to contest for the office of Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District under the platform of our great party in the 2027 General Elections,” she wrote.

She explained that the decision followed “careful reflection” and was in line with her commitment to justice, accountability and the protection of vulnerable members of society.

According to her, recent developments further strengthened her resolve to step aside, particularly what she described as the role played by Doris Ogala Umezurike in matters relating to the case involving Baby Testimony and the child’s physically challenged mother.

“If my view, the role played by Doris Ogala Umezurike in matters relating to the case of Baby Testimony and his physically challenged mother has been deeply concerning,” she said.

She added that the circumstances surrounding the matter had, in her opinion, prolonged the mother’s distress, exposed her to public embarrassment and raised serious concerns about the pursuit of justice for the child.

“These concerns have significantly influenced my decision to step away from my senatorial aspiration and focus on advocating for accountability, justice, and the protection of vulnerable members of society,” she stated.

Despite stepping down from the race, Ifemeludike reaffirmed her loyalty to the AAC, thanking the party’s leadership and members for their support throughout the nomination process.

She said she would continue to work for the party’s growth and remain committed to its vision, principles and objectives while urging the leadership to formally withdraw her name from all records relating to the Anambra Central senatorial candidature.