Umuchu Divided: Ofobuike vs Amarube As Soludo Backs Tinubu & Peter Obi Leads NDC For 2027

KINGSLEY EBERE

Umuchu town in Aguata LGA, Anambra State, is sharply divided as two prominent indigenes chase National Assembly seats, with national politics making the contest more intense.

Dr Chibueze Ofobuike, Mayor of Aguata LGA, is flying APGA’s flag for Aguata Federal Constituency House of Representatives.

Hon. Greg Amarube popularly called “Dino” is contesting Anambra South Senatorial District under ZLP on a “Divine Mandate.”

Two developments have changed the conversation in Anambra:

1. Peter Obi is the NDC Presidential Candidate

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, ratified Peter Obi as its presidential candidate for 2027 at its national convention in Abuja. Senator Victor Umeh moved the motion, seconded by Ovie Omo-Age. Former Kano Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso was present and is expected to be the party’s vice-presidential candidate.

Obi said the ticket is about “rekindling hope” and building a Nigeria of competence and accountability. In Anambra, his influence remains massive.

2. APGA Endorses Tinubu

Governor Charles Soludo and APGA have endorsed President Bola Tinubu for re-election in 2027. The party said it will work with the APC-led Federal Government to deliver projects to Anambra.

That endorsement has angered many Obi supporters in Anambra who see APGA as aligning with the center against “one of their own”.

House of Reps vs Senate: Which Serves Umuchu Better?

Dr Chibueze Ofobuike – House of Reps

Advantages: Direct access to constituency funds for Umuchu projects. Closer to the people for empowerment. APGA’s control of Anambra State means he can work with both state and FG.

Challenge: The APGA-Tinubu endorsement. In a state where Obi is still respected, some voters may punish APGA candidates at the polls.

Hon. Greg Amarube – Senate

Advantages: Represents all 7 LGAs in Anambra South. More influence on national budgets, appointments, and policy. His ZLP platform let’s him tap into the Obi/NDC sentiment without being on NDC ticket.

Challenge: ZLP has little structure. He must win across the entire senatorial zone, not just Aguata.

Chances in 2027

Ofobuike: Still strong. As Mayor he has structure, visibility, and APGA machinery. He wins if the election is about “deliverables now.” But he must convince voters that working with Tinubu’s Federal Government will bring more to Aguata.

Amarube: Has momentum. The combination of Obi leading NDC and anger at APGA’s Tinubu endorsement is creating space for alternatives. If the vote becomes a referendum on Obi vs the establishment, Amarube benefits most in Anambra South.

What Umuchu Elders Are Saying

The division is causing tension in town unions. Some say Umuchu should back one candidate to avoid vote-splitting. Others argue having one in the House of Representatives and one pushing for Senate gives the town “double representation”.

A community leader said: “This is no longer just about Umuchu. It’s about Obi vs Tinubu, NDC vs APGA. If we are not careful, we will fight and lose both seats.”

With campaigns for the Jan 16, 2027 election now underway, Umuchu will be a key battleground to watch in Aguata and Anambra South.