Abia 2027: I am not a newcomer in PDP — Anosike, governorship candidate

By Ugochukwu Alaribe

UMUAHIA — Dr Kelechi Anosike, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate for governor in Abia State’s 2027 election, denied accusations that he is a recent addition to the party. He said he has been a dedicated member since 2005.

Speaking in Umuahia, Anosike said the question of his long‑standing membership was raised by “social media‑era members” who were unfamiliar with his political background.

He joined the PDP in 2005 and has remained active, even though he has never held a formal political or party office in the state.

“For the avoidance of doubt, I am not a newcomer in the PDP. My relationship with, and membership of, our great party did not begin recently, neither is it driven by political convenience or personal ambition,” he said.

Anosike recalled contesting the House of Representatives ticket for the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency in 2011 under the PDP, but he did not win the party’s nomination.

He also mentioned his participation in the 2007/2008 PDP National Convention in Enugu, where he vied for the position of Deputy National Financial Secretary. The post was eventually zoned elsewhere.

He has served on several national party and federal government committees, earning commendations, and he authored the biography of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, titled “Olusegun Obasanjo: The Man, The Message, The Movement.”

“I participated fully in the democratic process but did not secure the party’s nomination. When those opportunities did not materialise, I did not leave the PDP. I stayed because I understand that loyalty matters,” he said.

Anosike emphasized that party membership extends beyond holding office, appointments or electoral victories. It involves sacrifice, commitment and sustained support.

“I understand that party membership is not only about winning elections or occupying positions. It is about commitment, sacrifice, and standing with your political family in both victory and defeat,” he added.

He noted that he has personally supported and maintained the PDP ward office in Nkwoegwu Ward and helped sustain party structures in Umuahia North Local Government Area.

Anosike expressed concern over the PDP’s loss in the 2023 elections, describing it as painful, and said he was motivated to help reposition the party in Abia State.

“I made up my mind to step forward and contribute more actively to rebuilding and repositioning our party. The PDP is bigger than any individual,” he said.

He said his emergence as governorship candidate is part of a broader effort to restore the party’s strength and appeal in the state ahead of 2027.

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