Tensions surrounding zoning arrangements ahead of the Nnewi North Local Government elections eased on Saturday, January 31, 2026, following the withdrawal of a major contender, Hon. Nnanna Nzewi, from the chairmanship race.
Nzewi, an APGA chieftain from Nnewichi, announced his decision at a media briefing held at Dove Hotel, Nnewi, where he formally declared his support for the incumbent Mayor, Hon. Echezona Anazodo, to complete his four-year tenure in line with Nnewi’s updated rotational agreement.
According to Nzewi, the decision was taken in the interest of peace, unity and progress in Nnewi North, noting that the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) had issued clear guidelines granting automatic tickets to serving mayors across Anambra State to seek re-election.
“APGA, in its wisdom, has rolled out guidelines that give automatic nomination to all serving mayors. As loyal party members, we must respect and abide by the party’s decision,” Nzewi said.
He commended Anazodo for what he described as visible achievements in infrastructure development, human capacity building and social investment initiatives across the local government area.
Nzewi also criticised what he termed the actions of “desperate individuals” who recently joined the party and were allegedly using social media to stir tension and undermine the existing peace in Nnewi North. He warned such elements to desist from actions that could destabilise the area.
Calling on APGA members and stakeholders in Nnewi North, Nzewi urged them to rally behind Mayor Anazodo to complete his tenure, stressing that the zoning arrangement guarantees that the chairmanship position would rotate to Nnewichi after the current term.
“With this understanding, I appeal to every APGA member in Nnewi North to support Mayor Echezona Anazodo. After his tenure, it will be the turn of Nnewichi,” he said.
He further alleged that opposition elements were attempting to hijack the APGA structure in Nnewi North by sponsoring what he described as an unqualified aspirant, insisting that the party would resist such moves.
The development is expected to calm political tensions in the area as preparations continue for the forthcoming local government elections.
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