By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The campaign photographs of the African Action Congress (AAC) gubernatorial candidate for the November 8 governorship election in Anambra State, Chioma Ifemeludike, have gained reactions and elicited drama across social media.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, October 28, 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.”
However, the photographs that accompanied the post have become major talking points for Nigerians across various social media platforms.
While some commended her courage to contest the governorship seat in Anambra State, others criticised her outfit and questioned its appropriateness for a governorship candidate.
@femiowolabi tweeted, “Not sure what lots of folks are focusing on, but this candidate has a 33-page manifesto, 8 pillars, and her government plans to create at least 2,600 jobs in three years for NdiAnambra, and also put “living wage” at N100k. best wishes, Chioma.”
@neo_officialll wrote, “Why do women use every opportunity they get to sexualise themselves? Even on very serious issues like politics, you made everything about your body. Does it not get embarrassing at some point? We know it’s the only thing the majority of you have to offer but at least disguise nau.”
@Morris_Monye added, “Women have found out that the easiest way to get attention and views here is to go raunchy.”
@The_Chidimma noted, “I have never seen anything more stupid.”
On Facebook, Obiora Fabian commented, “Anambra might be the first state to have a slay governor.”
Asiwaju Paul Herdaywholuwer Aseeperi added, “They want to turn the governorship election into a fashion parade.”
Some others comically promised to come to Anambra to vote for her because of the pictures and videos she shared.
@oku_yungx stated, “I will vote for you because of Frame 2. You are really a serious candidate.”
@TheoAbuAgada wrote, “If Soludo rigs you out, I have a legion of lawyers who will recover your mandate.”
@Ekene094 tweeted, “I just spoke with my dad and uncles, and they’ve all agreed to vote for you. I’ll be coming down to Anambra to cast my vote as well. Congratulations in advance, my able governor.”
Adekunle Amao also commented on Facebook, saying, “If she doesn’t win, I can give her Kwara as a consolation prize. No need for elections.”
In a post and campaign video shared on Wednesday in response to the reactions, the AAC guber candidate urged voters not to be misled by online criticism.
“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 wrote.
Ifemeludike stressed that her campaign goes beyond gender and focuses on competence, integrity, and development.
“I’m not intimidated. I know who I am and what I can bring to the table — good and quality leadership, human and environmental development. It doesn’t matter if it’s a man or a woman. What matters is electing credible leaders and demanding accountability.”
She further urged the electorate to reject vote buying, violence, and corruption, calling instead for issue-based politics.
