Only the Wike‑led PDP is recognised, Kelechi Anosike says

Dr. Kelechi Anosike, the PDP's governorship candidate in Abia State, maintains that only the Wike‑led faction of the party is legally recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), rejecting the existence of any other faction.

He expressed support for the faction aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, noting that other factions lack INEC recognition and that campaigning under them would be futile.

“There are not two PDPs. We have only one PDP, and it is the one recognised by INEC, with Nyesom Wike as our national leader. The others have moved to different parties,” he said.

Anosike asserted that he is the sole PDP candidate in Abia State, and that the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and four other parties have joined forces with the PDP to challenge Governor Alex Otti in the 2027 election.

Regarding Governor Alex Otti's performance, Anosike criticised the administration for neglecting the state's youth, noting that many residents, especially young voters, had left the Labour Party and shifted their support to the PDP ahead of the upcoming election.

“The Abia State government has neglected the people, especially the youths. There is no meaningful programme targeted at them. About 75 per cent of the youths are with us, and more are joining every day.”

“They have adopted our party. Nigerians will see endorsements from these parties and understand that we are serious,” he added.

When asked about alleged sponsorship from powerful political figures, Anosike denied such claims, stating that his ambition is guided only by divine direction.

He further refuted reports that his candidacy was connected to former Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu.

Anosike warned the Otti administration against intimidation of opposition voices, urging the governor to welcome criticism and public scrutiny.

“If you have nothing to hide, there is no reason to clamp down on people expressing their opinions. If you believe you have performed well, present your achievements and defend them.”

“During debates, we will ask critical questions and expect answers. Arresting people for speaking their minds only raises suspicions,” he said.

He also accused Governor Otti of prioritising road construction at the expense of other vital economic sectors.

Anosike said that infrastructure alone cannot improve citizens’ welfare and that the government has failed to tackle rising poverty and economic hardship.

He added that the Otti administration has benefited from increased federal allocations during President Bola Tinubu’s tenure.

“Previous administrations received as little as N3 billion monthly, whereas the current government receives as much as N30 billion.”

“With such resources, road construction alone should not