Former Central Bank governor Charles Soludo and 17 other aspirants have so far declared interest to contest in the November 6 governorship elections in Anambra state.
Soludo is from APGA, while Dr Obiora Okonkwo, Chris Azubogu and Senator Uche Ekwunife are from the PDP, and Senator Ifeanyi Ubah of the Young Democratic Party (YPP).
APC has George Moghalu, Managing Director/CEO of the National Inland Water Ways (NIWA) and Tony Nwoye who won the primary election of the APC to contest the last governorship election in the state.
Other aspirants are Azuka Okwuosa (APC), Johnbosco Onunkwo (APC), Dr Chidozie Nwankwo (APC), Dr Godwin Maduka (PDP), Dr Ifedi Okwenna (PDP),Valentine Ozigbo (PDP), Bar Emeka Etiaba (SAN), Engr Godwin Ezeemo (PDP), Akachukwu Nwamkpo (APGA) and Ugochukwu Okeke (PDP).
Sen Ekwunife is the only female contender among those who have so far declared interest to succeed incumbent Governor Willie Obiano, whose tenure expires on March 17, 2022.
