As the 2025 Anambra gubernatorial election draws closer, political analysts and stakeholders are already speculating on possible contenders. Among the names being mentioned is Senator Tony Nwoye, a well-known politician with significant grassroots support. However, while he is undoubtedly a formidable force in Anambra politics, contesting the governorship election at this time would be politically unwise. Instead, he should focus on consolidating his position in the Senate and positioning himself for the future.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo has made considerable strides in governance, focusing on economic policies, infrastructural development, and public sector reforms. His administration has gained recognition for its efforts in improving education, security, road construction, and internally generated revenue. While no administration is without its flaws, Soludo’s achievements give him a strong edge going into the 2025 election.
Defeating a sitting governor with tangible progress is always a daunting challenge. For a challenger like Tony Nwoye, the odds are even higher, as Soludo still enjoys substantial support across different sectors. Engaging in a battle that is unlikely to be won could harm Nwoye’s political brand rather than strengthen it. Instead of risking an unsuccessful campaign, he should focus on growing his influence in the Senate, where he can remain relevant and influential in shaping the political landscape of Anambra.
Although the Nigerian Constitution does not mandate zoning, it remains a strong political reality in Anambra State. Senator Nwoye hails from Anambra North, the same region that produced former Governor Willie Obiano, who served from 2014 to 2022. In contrast, Soludo is from Anambra South, and many political observers believe that the South should be allowed to complete its turn before power rotates again.
Running for governor in 2025 would make Nwoye appear insensitive to the existing zoning arrangement, possibly leading to opposition from voters in Anambra South and Central, who feel it is their turn. This could weaken his chances, not only in this election but also in future political contests. Rather than disrupting the zoning agreement, he should use this period to strengthen his political alliances and position himself as the natural choice when power shifts back to Anambra North.
Tony Nwoye is currently serving as a first-term senator, a role that provides him with an opportunity to expand his political influence beyond Anambra. The Senate is a platform where he can attract federal projects, build alliances across party lines, and develop legislative expertise.
By remaining in the Senate, he can continue to secure development projects for his constituents, ensuring that his political relevance and goodwill remain intact. If he focuses on legislative achievements and constituency development, he will enter the 2029 election cycle with a stronger profile and more credibility as a leader who delivers results.
Dr. Nwoye has already contested the Anambra governorship twice—in 2013 and 2017—made great impact but without success. Entering the 2025 race against a strong incumbent could make him appear too eager for power, which may not sit well with voters. Losing another governorship election could diminish his political capital, making future campaigns even more difficult.
Politics is often about timing, and miscalculating the right moment to contest can lead to long-term political setbacks. If he waits, he can re-enter the race at a time when his chances of success are much higher. A failed campaign now could jeopardize his growing influence, whereas patience and strategic positioning would make him a stronger candidate in the future.
By the time Soludo completes his second term in 2030, there will likely be a more defined political agreement on zoning. At that point, Anambra North could have a stronger claim to the governorship, and Tony Nwoye would be well-positioned as a leading candidate. If he remains loyal and continues to build his influence, he could emerge as the consensus candidate, making his path to victory much smoother. Instead of struggling against the odds in 2025, he could enter the race in 2030 with the support of a broader coalition of political stakeholders.
Tony Nwoye is a respected politician with a bright future, but 2025 is not the right time for him to contest the Anambra governorship. The strength of the incumbent governor, the zoning arrangement, and the benefits of staying in the Senate all point to a smarter long-term strategy.
By focusing on consolidating his influence in the Senate, he can position himself as an even stronger contender in 2030, when the political terrain will be more favourable. Instead of being lured into a contest that could weaken his political standing, he should play the long game, ensuring that when he eventually contests, victory will be within his grasp.
