“Let a Woman Lead”: AAC Candidate Chioma Ifemeludike Sparks Online Debate with Bold Anambra Governorship Campaign

African Action Congress (AAC) candidate for the November 8 Anambra governorship election, Chioma Ifemeludike, is gaining widespread attention online after releasing a series of campaign photos and videos promoting inclusive governance and challenging entrenched patriarchal norms in Nigerian politics.

In an X post on Tuesday, Ifemeludike declared her confidence in the upcoming race, writing:

> “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.”

Her post quickly generated thousands of reactions—ranging from enthusiastic support to skeptical criticism.

One user, #uc_iyke, questioned the timing of her campaign, suggesting it might be “too late to gain widespread visibility,” while another, #CFcTem, commented that “politics is not fashion.”

However, others applauded her courage and charisma. #dangbanamanager wrote, “You have my vote. I want to support your campaign,” while #BosePrecious_ defended her against gender-based criticism, saying, “If we’re truly talking about feminism, attacking her only reinforces patriarchy.”

In response to the online debate, Ifemeludike shared another campaign video on Wednesday, urging voters to look beyond appearances and online 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.”

In the video, she opened up about her experiences navigating political patriarchy and the challenges of being a woman in politics.

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

Ifemeludike also addressed the cultural biases that continue to undermine women’s leadership:

> “In Anambra State, some still believe that a woman who squats to urinate cannot govern a state. You hear this from male chauvinists all the time—it shows how deep patriarchy still runs in our society.”

She emphasized that her campaign goes beyond gender, focusing instead on competence, integrity, and sustainable development.

> “What matters is electing credible leaders and demanding accountability, not whether the person is a man or a woman.”

Calling for issue-based politics, Ifemeludike urged voters to reject vote buying, violence, and corruption, framing the 2025 election as an opportunity for real change.

> “Beyond gender and age, Anambra must choose a credible leader with empathy and integrity. This is our chance to correct years of bad governance and bring true development to our people.”

She concluded her message with a passionate appeal in Igbo:

> “Ka nwaanyị je ke ne — Nwaanyị bụ ihe,” meaning “Let the woman go; a woman is somebody.”

Ifemeludike ended with her campaign slogan: “Courage for Change.”