The Anambra Opinion Polls (AOP) has urged candidates to focus on issue-based campaigns and encouraged voters to actively participate in shaping the future of the state through their ballots.
Addressing journalists yesterday in Abuja, Tabuko Kennedy, the director-general of the Nigeria Democratic Research Institute (NDRI), spoke on behalf of the organisations and emphasised that the poll employed scientific methodologies.
He stated that a recent opinion poll conducted by the AOP, undersigned by 12 independent research organisations, positioned Hon. Chukwuma Umeoji as the leading candidate in the upcoming 2025 Anambra State governorship election.
According to the poll results, Umeoji secured 54.6% of the votes, significantly ahead of incumbent Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who polled 22.3%. Senator Tony Nwoye followed with 15.8%, while other aspirants, including Sir Paul Chukwuma (4.5%), Dr Obiora Okonkwo (2.1%), and Barth Nwibe (0.7%), trailed behind.
The survey, conducted under the supervision of the AOP, was confirmed by the 12 independent research organisations as free, fair, and transparent. The primary objective was to gauge voter preferences ahead of the 2025 elections.
Kennedy emphasised that the poll employed scientific methodologies, stating, “These included structured questionnaires, face-to-face and telephone interviews, as well as online sampling, ensuring broad representation from all 21 local government areas of Anambra State.”
He added, “The findings reflect the true aspirations of the Anambra people, based on inputs from diverse demographics, including youths, professionals, traders, artisans, and traditional institutions.”
Kennedy further highlighted the credibility of the participating research institutions, noting their extensive experience in political polling, electoral research, governance analysis, and voter awareness initiatives across Nigeria and West Africa.
“These organisations are renowned for their integrity, methodological rigour, and commitment to democracy. They adhere to globally accepted best practices, ensuring fairness, transparency, and credibility in polling. Their collective reputation reinforces the authenticity and neutrality of the poll results,” he added.
Kennedy called on all political stakeholders in Anambra State to acknowledge the poll’s credibility as a reflection of the electorate’s preferences.
He also urged candidates to focus on issue-based campaigns and encouraged voters to actively participate in shaping the state’s future through their ballots.
“We remain committed to fostering transparency, democracy, and voter education. Our monitoring of political trends will continue as the election approaches,” he said.
