A fierce political row has erupted in Anambra State after Nonye Soludo, wife of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, publicly rebuked former Senator Uche Ekwunife over recent comments she said were aimed at tarnishing her family’s reputation.
In a strongly worded statement shared on Friday, Soludo accused Ekwunife of crossing “a red line” by dragging her family into political disputes.
She defended her integrity and called on Ekwunife to retract her claims within 72 hours or face legal action.
The confrontation stems from a series of exchanges following Governor Soludo’s earlier questions about Ekwunife’s academic credentials and political record.
What began as a political dispute has now spilled into personal territory, drawing widespread attention and concern among Anambra’s political class.
She also challenged Ekwunife to a public oath and DNA tests as a way to put to rest questions raised in the course of the campaign.
The face-off followed a viral video since Tuesday in which Ekwunife alleged that Governor Chukwuma Soludo and his wife were part of the administration of late Governor Chinwoke Mbadinuju between 1999 and 2003. The senator was also reacting to claims that her academic qualifications were questionable.
Recall the issue has deepened an already tense campaign in Anambra, where the credentials and personal character of candidates have been a recurring subject of contention between rival parties, especially the APC and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).
In her statement, Dr. Soludo rejected the allegations and said Ekwunife should provide verifiable evidence to support her claims.
“For starters, let me repeat three verifiable facts. One, I have never worked for anyone in my life. I have been a professional and an entrepreneur all my adult life. Two, I never met Dr. Mbadinuju of blessed memory in my life. Three, in my 55 years on planet earth, I have known only one man, Chukwuma Soludo,” she said.
The First Lady further issued a challenge to Ekwunife, “Since she claims to be a converted Catholic, I challenge her and both of us to swear an oath of fidelity and chastity at any Cathedral in front of the Blessed Sacrament. I will also swear with my children that I have known only one man—Chukwuma Soludo,” she added.
She also proposed DNA tests for both families, to be conducted in three reputable hospitals in London, stressing that she would bear all expenses.
“As a businesswoman, I will pay for your and your family’s travels as well as for the tests. If, after the tests, it is confirmed that your husband is the father of all your children, I will congratulate you with a cash award. I can confirm that my family is ready for this test at any moment of your choice,” she stated.
Soludo concluded by urging Ekwunife to recant her statements and tender an unreserved apology within 72 hours, warning that her lawyers had been notified in preparation for possible legal action.
However, in reaction to the development, Ekwunife, in a statement released on Saturday, stated she gave a “friendly advice” to Soludo.
Ekwunife noted, “Mrs. Soludo does not owe me any explanation regarding personal family matters. If my statement caused any discomfort to Mrs. Soludo, she owes her husband an explanation, not me.”
She further stated, “Challenging me to respond or undergo tests does not involve me, as I am not part of her family affairs. She should focus on addressing any concerns with her husband.”
Ekwunife concluded, “My resolve to contribute positively and save Anambra State from misrule remains strong and undaunted
Political analysts warn that the feud risks overshadowing broader governance issues in the state. “This kind of personal escalation distracts from substantive debates,” said Dr. Ifeanyi Nwosu, a political commentator in Awka.
Observers say the development underscores the increasingly bitter tone of political rivalries ahead of 2027.