The political atmosphere in Anambra State heated up over the weekend after Dr. Nonye Soludo, wife of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, engaged in a war of words with Senator Uche Ekwunife, the All Progressives Congress (APC) deputy governorship candidate in the November 8, 2025 election.
Dr. Soludo, in a strongly worded statement on Saturday, accused Ekwunife of making “malicious and fabricated allegations” against her family. She warned that unless the former lawmaker retracts her comments and issues a public apology within 72 hours, legal action would follow.
The First Lady also challenged Ekwunife to settle the matter publicly through an oath-taking ceremony in a Catholic cathedral and DNA tests for both families at three reputable London hospitals, promising to bear all expenses.
“I have never worked for anyone in my life. I have been a professional and entrepreneur all my adult years. I never met the late Governor Mbadinuju, and in my 55 years on earth, I have known only one man, Chukwuma Soludo,” she said.
The controversy stems from a viral video in which Ekwunife alleged that the Soludos were part of the administration of the late Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju (1999–2003).
The APC candidate made the claims while responding to criticism over the authenticity of her academic qualifications.
Dr. Soludo dismissed the claims as politically motivated and reiterated that her family was prepared to prove its integrity.
“If, after the DNA tests, it is confirmed that your husband is the father of all your children, I will congratulate you with a cash award,” she stated, stressing that her lawyers were already on standby.
In her response, Senator Ekwunife downplayed the confrontation, describing her earlier remarks as mere “friendly advice.”
“Mrs. Soludo does not owe me any explanation regarding personal family matters. If my statement caused her discomfort, she owes her husband an explanation, not me,” Ekwunife said.
She added that she remains focused on her mission to “rescue Anambra State from misrule,” insisting that the First Lady’s challenge does not concern her.
The public exchange has further intensified the already tense campaign season in Anambra, where candidates’ personal integrity and qualifications have become hot-button issues.
