By Obiora Udoye
The ongoing gubernatorial election campaigns in Anambra State have taken an unfortunate turn, with the opposition resorting to mudslinging and name-calling in a bid to gain traction. This development has raised eyebrows among observers, who note that the opposition’s inability to articulate coherent ideas and propagate a compelling narrative has left them struggling to connect with the electorates.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo, on the other hand, has defined his campaign trajectory with programs outlined in “The Peoples Manifesto” and the projects he has set before the people of Anambra in three years. The incumbent governor’s popularity and endorsement by the electorates are evident in the lack of traction gained by the opposition’s campaigns. Despite this, the opposition has failed to present a convincing counter-narrative, instead opting for negative campaigns and personal attacks.
The opposition’s strategy of mudslinging has not only degenerated the campaign into a cesspool of insults and accusations but has also failed to resonate with the people. The electorates are anxious and worried about the stark lack of alternative narratives, and the campaigns have been unable to generate sustained issues-based discourse. The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Evangelist Nicholas Ukachukwu, who claims to be the main opposition, has touted “we are taking Anambra to the centre,” but this slogan has not translated to tangible support on the ground.
The recent loss of by-elections by the opposition in Anambra South Senatorial District and Onitsha North 1 State Constituency has further exposed their weakness. The opposition’s sudden interest in responding to Governor Soludo’s comments on their academic qualifications has given them a platform to throw tantrums, but this approach is unlikely to sway the electorates.
Discerning Ndi Anambra have condemned the negative political brick-bat and called for restraint from both the incumbent and the opposition. While some may argue that this development has brought issues to the front burner, it is essential to recognize that mudslinging and negative campaigns are not a sustainable strategy for winning elections. Instead, the opposition should focus on articulating alternative ideas and programs that resonate with the people.
The opposition’s failure to present a coherent narrative and their reliance on mudslinging have underscored their ineptitude. Governor Soludo’s popularity and endorsement by the electorates make it unlikely for the opposition to hijack the election through written results or any other means. The people of Anambra have spoken through their silence, and it is time for the opposition to redirect their efforts towards issues-based discussions on the campaign trail.
To stem the current tide of mudslinging, the opposition is advised to focus on articulating alternative ideas and programs that resonate with the people. The campaigns should shift from negative rhetoric to issues-based discourse.The electorates should demand more from their leaders and hold them accountable for their actions. In the same vein, the media should play a more active role in promoting issues-based campaigns and holding politicians accountable for their words and actions.
It is expected that when these simple steps are taken by the political gladiators, Ndi Anambra can be assured of a more informed and engaging electoral process that prioritizes substantive issues over mudslinging and personal attacks.
*Udoye, a public Affairs Analyst writes from Nkpor.*
