BREAKING: 2027: Ene-Nwannaji emerges Enugu NDC guber candidate

Prof. James Ene‑Nwannaji has been selected as the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for governor of Enugu State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ene‑Nwannaji won the party’s governorship primary held on Friday, beating fellow aspirants Chief Chinyeaka Ohaa and Senator Gilbert Nnaji.

Dr. Sebastine Okafor, the NDC Secretary for Enugu State, announced the result and said the primary took place across all 17 local government areas in accordance with directives from the party’s national secretariat.

Okafor added that officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) observed the process.

He also released the winners of the NDC’s senatorial primaries in the state’s three senatorial zones.

Dr. Chika Obetta was chosen for Enugu North, Dr. Mrs. Celelia Ikechukwu for Enugu East, and Barr. Mrs. Ugochi Ohajekwe for Enugu West.

The party named several House of Representatives candidates as well.

Dr. Stephen Ugwoke won the ticket for Nsukka/Igboeze South, Barr. Chimezie Nwodo for Nkanu East/West, Barr. Kene Nnadi for Enugu North/South, Comrade Felix Ijegalu for Udi/Ezeagu, and Barr. Onyebuchi Nwabueze for Igboetiti/Uzo‑Uwani.

Okafor said the full list of House of Representatives and House of Assembly candidates would be released later.

Dr. Johnpaul Ani, the NDC Chairman in Enugu State, described the primary as peaceful and well‑organised.

He said the exercise followed the party’s guidelines and the Electoral Act 2026, and that it demonstrated the party’s readiness for the 2027 elections.

Mr. Ani urged candidates who were not successful to accept the outcome and work with the party in preparation for the January 2027 governorship election.