the first time in 24 years, the Anambra State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has successfully elected a new chairman, Mr. Chidi Chidebe, in a transparent and credible congress election.
The PDP in Anambra had long been plagued by internal divisions, which led to parallel executive structures from the ward level up to the state level. These factional battles resulted in endless litigations and inconclusive congresses, severely limiting the party’s ability to win key elections, benefiting rival political parties.
In a closely contested election, Mr. Chidi Chidebe secured 1,080 votes, while his main opponent, Amaechi Onowu, garnered 960 votes, making him the runner-up. Other key positions filled during the congress include Mr. Charles Anierobi as Deputy Chairman and Ebele Onunkwo as Secretary of the party.
Speaking after the congress, which began at 3:30 PM on Wednesday and concluded at 7:40 AM on Thursday, the Deputy Governor of Enugu State and Chairman of the Congress Committee, Mr. Ifeanyi Ossai, described the process as thorough and fulfilling.
“This was a tough but comprehensive exercise, and we leave here satisfied, having laid a new foundation for rebuilding our party. Our role now is to encourage the newly elected executive to work towards unity. Within the next 48 hours, they should engage all the candidates in a dinner with the elected officials to begin the process of reconciliation,” Ossai stated.
He further emphasized that there were no true victors or losers in the election, as it was simply a process to assign tasks. “Those who won have been sent on a mission. True victory will only come when we reclaim Anambra State in the general elections. Only then can we truly celebrate.”
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Chidi Chidebe expressed his desire to heal divisions within the party, noting that his opponent was not a loser. His primary focus, he said, would be uniting the party and restoring peace.
“My campaign promise was to reconcile all factions within our party. I now call on my colleague, Amaechi Onowu, and others to join me in this effort. Together, we will prepare the PDP for the 2025 gubernatorial election in Anambra State,” Chidebe stated.