Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, on Sunday confirmed the tragic death of a councillor during the just-concluded governorship election in the state. The victim, who represented Owerre Ezukala community in Orumba South Local Government Area, was reportedly shot by gunmen while attempting to cast his vote on Saturday.
The incident occurred at Owerre Ezukala Ward 1, where the councillor, a member of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), was headed home after voting when he was accosted and killed. Governor Soludo, speaking shortly after being declared the winner of the election, expressed deep sadness over the incident.
“I also note with sadness the news that some hoodlums went to a community. We understand they came from across the border, caused mayhem and even killed one of our supporters, a councillor who had just voted and was heading home,” Soludo said. “They accosted him and shot him dead. That’s a councillor and an APGA chieftain. It’s very unfortunate. May his soul rest in peace.”
Despite this violent attack, Governor Soludo commended the security agencies for their role in ensuring the election was largely peaceful. He noted that their presence helped to thwart other potential attempts to disrupt the poll, which was held across the state on Saturday.
Anambra State has a history of politically tense elections, and security has always been a major concern for both residents and electoral authorities. In recent years, electoral violence has occurred in certain local government areas, making the role of police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other agencies crucial for the safety of voters.
The councillor’s death comes amid a keenly contested governorship election, where APGA, the ruling party in the state, faced competition from several other political parties. Governor Soludo’s victory marks his re-election, a rare achievement in Anambra politics, making him the third governor in the state’s history to secure a second term.
The state’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials worked alongside security personnel to ensure that most voting centres were operational and accessible to voters, although isolated incidents such as the Owerre Ezukala attack have raised concerns about electoral safety.
Residents of Owerre Ezukala expressed shock and fear following the councillor’s death, describing the attack as “unacceptable and heartbreaking.” Local leaders called for increased security measures to protect voters in future elections.
Governor Soludo’s statement highlighted both the tragedy of the loss and the importance of continuing efforts to protect voters and maintain order during elections. He reiterated that the state government and security agencies remain committed to ensuring that such incidents do not recur.
Governor Soludo’s call for peace and his praise for security personnel indicate a commitment to addressing these challenges while honouring the memory of those who lost their lives in the pursuit of democratic participation.
