By Isaac Mission
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State has commenced preparations for the 2027 governorship election with the inauguration of its Campaign Council Management Team.
The team, inaugurated in Umuahia on Tuesday, is headed by former Nigerian Ambassador to Argentina, Empire Kanu, as chairman, while Chief Obinna Nwachukwu serves as Director-General.
The inauguration took place at the campaign office of the party’s governorship candidate, Dr. Kelechi Anosike, along Aba Road, Umuahia, and was conducted by the council’s Secretary, Ukpai Ukairo.
The ceremony marked the formal commencement of the party’s campaign activities, with its leadership describing the effort as a grassroots-focused and issue-driven movement aimed at returning the PDP to power in the state.
Speaking at the event, Kanu expressed confidence in the party’s chances in 2027, insisting that the PDP remained deeply rooted in Abia politics.
He described the current Labour Party administration as temporary and urged members of the campaign council to concentrate their efforts at the ward level, where he said the party’s electoral strength would be determined.
According to him, winning the wards across the state would be crucial to securing victory for the PDP at the governorship poll.
Kanu also praised Anosike for establishing what he described as a strong campaign structure within a short period, saying it demonstrated his preparedness for the governorship race.
He further expressed confidence in Anosike and his running mate, Elder Amah Abraham, saying the duo possessed the political and administrative experience required to lead the state.
On his part, Anosike said the inauguration represented more than the unveiling of a campaign structure, describing it as the beginning of a movement focused on placing the welfare of Abia residents at the centre of governance.
He said the campaign would take its message of welfare and service directly to communities, local government areas, villages and wards across the state.
Anosike also promised that his campaign would avoid personal attacks, insults and hatred, saying the election should instead be based on competing ideas and practical solutions to the challenges confronting residents.
He highlighted food security, employment and industrialisation as some of the areas his administration would prioritise if elected.
The PDP candidate pledged to create more economic opportunities for young people and said his administration would target the establishment of at least three industries within its first year in office.
Addressing criticism over the PDP’s long period in power in Abia, Anosike argued that the party had undergone significant changes, describing the current structure as a “new PDP” with a different mindset, focus and direction.
The Campaign Council’s Director-General, Nwachukwu, assured the party leadership that members of the team would work with dedication and determination to achieve victory in 2027.
The state PDP chairman and deputy governorship candidate, Elder Amah, attended the inauguration alongside other members of the campaign council. The newly inaugurated officials were subsequently presented with the party’s flags.