₦airaland Forum

African Action Congress (AAC) candidate for the November 8 Anambra governorship election, Chioma Ifemeludike, has stirred widespread online conversation after releasing a series of campaign photos and videos promoting inclusive governance and challenging long-standing patriarchal attitudes in politics, Very Nigerian reports.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, Ifemeludike declared, “I am the flag bearer of the African Action Congress, and I’m proud to say that I’m the best candidate in the November 8 Anambra gubernatorial election."

"The lighthouse is about to be lit. #ChiomaForGovernor2025 #CourageForChange.”

The post has generated thousands of mixed reactions from social media users.

While some commended her courage, others questioned her campaign timing and approach. User #uc_iyke commented that her campaign appeared “too late to gain widespread visibility,” while another user, #CFcTem, remarked that “politics is not fashion.”

However, several supporters came to her defense. User #dangbanamanager wrote, “You have my vote. I want to support your campaign,” while #BosePrecious_ weighed in on the gender debate, saying, “If we’re really talking about feminism, then there’s no way to attack her and not sound like you’re pandering to patriarchy.”

Reacting to the online discourse, Ifemeludike posted a follow-up video on Wednesday, urging voters to look beyond social media narratives.

“Do not let them gaslight or confuse you. Yes, we can have beauty and brains in one body. Beauty and elegance are about courage, kindness, and intelligence. Chioma is that woman. Ndi Anambra must vote for social change,” she said.

In her campaign video, the AAC candidate shared her motivation for running and the challenges of confronting gender bias in politics.

“Has this journey been difficult for me as a woman? Oh yes, it has been tough. But when the going gets tough, the tough get going. I have the ability, capability, and capacity to run this race with any gender,” she stated.

She further condemned the cultural stereotypes that undermine women’s leadership in the state. “In Anambra, many still believe that a woman who squats to urinate cannot oversee the affairs of the state."

"You hear this from male chauvinists all the time, and it shows how strong patriarchy still is in our society,” she said.

Ifemeludike maintained that her campaign is focused not on gender but on competence and accountability.

“I’m not intimidated. I know who I am and what I can bring to the table, good and quality leadership, human and environmental development. What matters is electing credible leaders and demanding accountability,” she added.

She also called for issue-based politics and urged citizens to reject vote-buying and political violence.

“Beyond gender and age, Anambra must vote for a credible leader with empathy and integrity."

"This is our chance to correct years of bad governance and bring real development to our people,” she said.

Ending her address with a rallying message in Igbo, she declared, “Ka nwaanyị je ke ne. Nwaanyị bụ ihe”, meaning “Let the woman lead, she is somebody.” She closed with her campaign mantra: “Courage for Change.”

Mrchippychappy:
I don vote for am with my two hands and 3 legs already

CodeTemplarr:
Running mate material. Next pleaseeeeeee.