African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate, Chioma Ifemeludike, has set social media abuzz after releasing a series of campaign photos and videos that emphasize her message of inclusive governance and challenge deep-rooted gender stereotypes in politics.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, the actress-turned-politician wrote: “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.”
The post quickly went viral, attracting thousands of mixed reactions.
While some users praised her courage and charisma, others questioned the tone and timing of her campaign.
One user, @uc_iyke, remarked that her campaign launch seemed “too late to gain widespread visibility,” while another, @CFcTem, commented, “Politics is not fashion.”
However, others came to her defense. @dangbanamanager wrote, “Be like you go hold first. You have my vote. I want to support your campaign.”
Another user, @BosePrecious_, weighed in on the gender debate surrounding her candidacy:
“I’m hearing some feminists pushing back because of how she presents herself, but if we’re really talking about feminism, then attacking her only reinforces patriarchy.”
In a follow-up post shared Wednesday, Ifemeludike responded to the online criticism with a new campaign video urging voters to stay focused on substance over image.
“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,” she said.
In the video, the AAC candidate opened up about her motivation for joining the race and the obstacles she has faced as a woman in politics.
“Has this journey been difficult for me as a woman? Oh yes, it has been tough. But when the going gets tough, the tough get going. I have the ability, capability, and capacity to run this race with any gender,” she stated.
Ifemeludike also condemned cultural biases that continue to undermine women’s leadership potential.
“In Anambra State, many still believe that a woman who squats to urinate cannot oversee the affairs of the state. You hear this from male chauvinists all the time, and it shows how strong patriarchy still is in our society,” she said.
Emphasizing that her campaign goes beyond gender advocacy, she highlighted her focus on competence, integrity, and development.
“I’m not intimidated. I know who I am and what I can bring to the table, good leadership, human and environmental development. What matters is electing credible leaders and demanding accountability,” she added.
The AAC candidate further called for issue-based politics, urging voters to reject vote buying, political violence, and corruption.
“Beyond gender and age, Anambra must vote for a credible leader with empathy and integrity. This is our chance to correct years of bad governance and bring real development to our people,” she said.
Ending her campaign message with a passionate appeal, Ifemeludike urged Anambra residents to make a decisive choice in the upcoming election:
“Anambra must take a clear stand on November 8 against corrupt and nepotistic leaders. This is our chance to rewrite our story and elect a leader who can truly deliver good governance. Vote Chioma Grace Ifemeludike for governor under the AAC.”
She rounded off her speech with an inspiring phrase in Igbo: “Ka nwaanyị je ke ne Nwaanyị bụ ihe” — meaning Let the woman lead; she is somebody.
Her campaign slogan: “Courage for Change.”
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