Anambra Guber: Female candidate sparks controversy over campaign photos, sets internet ‘on fire’

The African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate in Anambra State, Chioma Grace Ifemeludike, has sparked a heated debate online following the release of her campaign photos, which many Nigerians described as “too glamorous for politics.”

 

In her post on X (formerly Twitter), Ifemeludike 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,” reports Gwg.online.

 

Her statement and photos quickly went viral, generating over 1.5 million views within hours. While some praised her confidence and modern campaign style, others criticized her for what they described as “unnecessary showmanship.”

 

@AbassAdesola commented, “Na fashion show we wan do? You think governance is about taking fine pictures.” Similarly, @Brodamickey wrote, “These photos are too sultry for this purpose. Please change them.”

 

@KnawtieGbedu faulted her media strategy, saying, “The second frame isn’t really necessary. It’s not a birthday shoot. Your media team should first be disbanded.” Another critic, @Praetor, alleged, “Her real goal, this lady is just trying to market herself to the right desperate enough audience to notice her body. Sowore using her, she is using him.”

 

However, many others came to her defense, applauding her courage and message of reform. @Wealthwize001 said, “Elections are close already. I advise you engage the people more at the grassroots. It’s never an easy journey, my dear, but the Lord is your strength.”

 

@Aregs added, “Many of the comments show majority of Nigerians don’t respect women!” while @OlusegunBakare wrote, “Ride on ma, Sowore gat you.”

 

Some users even pledged their votes. @JoshuaAragon said, “Because of you, I’m coming home to vote,” and @RoughRider commented, “I wasn’t planning to vote this year, but I might change my mind because of you.”

 

Others expressed open admiration. @Pros_vision wrote, “Ada, you are as sharp as your manifesto; you’re already at Agu Awka with this fine shape.” @Cryptodinho added humorously, “Soludo must leave that seat for you. You carry all the arsenal required for good government.”

 

While some took a lighter approach, @Maney quipped, “You think say na BB Naija contest ni?” and @MaximusDex joked, “Na ‘see what a hot body can do’ soundtrack we go use for campaign ooo.”

 

Responding to the backlash, Ifemeludike posted another message and campaign video, saying: “Do not let them gaslight or confuse you. We can have beauty and brains in one body. Beauty and elegance are about courage, kindness, and intelligence. Ndi Anambra must vote for social change.”

 

She added, “It’s been tough, but I have the ability, capability, and capacity to run this race with any gender. Many still believe a woman can’t lead, but what matters is good leadership and accountability.”

 

The AAC candidate urged Anambra voters to prioritize competence over gender or appearance. “Beyond gender and age, Anambra must vote for a credible leader with empathy and integrity. Let’s reject vote buying, corruption, and violence,” she said.

 

She concluded with a rallying call in Igbo: “Ka nwaanyị je ke ne — nwaanyị bụ ihe,” meaning “Let the woman lead; she is somebody.”

 

As the November 8 governorship election draws closer, Ifemeludike’s campaign continues to attract attention, blending modern media appeal with strong political messaging — and stirring a spirited conversation about women, image, and leadership in Nigerian politics.