By our reporter
Former Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, has distanced himself from a campaign poster circulating online that features his image alongside the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Anambra State, Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, and his running mate, Senator Uche Ekwunife.
In a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Hyggy Obialo, and personally endorsed by the former governor, Ngige said he neither gave consent nor approval for his photograph to be used in any campaign material. He described the move as unauthorized and misleading to the public.
Ngige made it clear that he is currently on a political sabbatical after 25 years in active partisan politics and public service. He said he has repeatedly told supporters and political associates that he would not be participating in the forthcoming governorship election in any capacity.
The former governor urged those behind the campaign material to respect his decision to step back from partisan activities. He stressed that his withdrawal from active politics was deliberate, allowing him time to rest and reflect after serving in various leadership roles, including as Governor of Anambra State from 2003 to 2006, Senator representing Anambra Central from 2011 to 2015, and Minister of Labour and Employment from 2015 to 2023.
Ngige’s public disclaimer comes as political activities heighten in Anambra State ahead of the governorship election, with candidates seeking high-profile endorsements to boost their chances at the polls. Political observers note that the development may affect the APC’s campaign momentum, particularly among supporters who had assumed Ngige’s backing for its candidate.
